OF
EACON MICHA2L C:r,C
0119392
HISTORICAL SKETCHES
OF
SEVEN GENERATIONS
DESCENDANTS
of
DEACON MICHAEL GERBER
,^\ 1763-1938
\
Compiled by E. P. Gerber, Kidron, Ohio
GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY
OF THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST
OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS
CONTENTS OF GERBER HISTORY
Page
Emigrating from Switzerland to America in 1822 14
Settled in Sonnenberg, Wayne County, Ohio 19
Pioneer Buildings 25
First Churches in Sonnenberg Settlement 26
Fragmentary History of Ancestors 32
Michael Gerber Genealogy 42
Michael Gerber Genealogy
THE FIVE MAIN BRANCHES OF DEACON
MICHAEL GERBER STEM
A., Barbara Gerber (Hofstetter) born 1797,
died 1870 - Page 42
B., Anna Gerber (Zuercher) born 1799,
died 1844 Page 92
C, Katharina Gerber (Falb) born 1801,
died 1877 Page 100
D., John M. Gerber, born 1803, died 1879 .... Page 116
E., Ulrich L. Gerber, born 1809, died 1874 .. Page 240
HOW TO LOCATE YOUR FAMILY RELATION
Turn to your Branch of Ancestors, A, B, C, D or E. For
example if you want to locate John M. Gerber, St., which
is Branch D, turn to the index which refers to pages 116
to 240 where all of John M. Gerber's, Sr., children and
descendants can be located.
E. P. GERBER, Compiler, Kidron, Ohio
Assisted in Arranging the Family Record by
N. G. Fankhauser, Dalton, Ohio
Historical Record of Ancestor by Christ Lerch,
Bern, Switzerland
One generation passeth away and another cometh:
but the earth abideth forever. — Eccl. 1:4.
Think of your ancestors and your posterity. — (Tacitus),
PREFACE
As its title pages indicate, this book is intended
as a chronicle of our ancestor and pioneer, Deacon
Michael Gerber and his descendants, including
Michael's parents and their children, as described
at the beginning of this genealogy, covering the pe-
riod of 208 years from 1730 to 1938. The author
believes that this book will render very valuable
service to the descendants of this genealogy, tracing
their ancestors and descendants. It will serve as
a useful source of information for family relations
of each branch, and should cause a greater apprecia-
tion for our "goodly heritage" left us; it will chal-
lenge us to loyalty to the "faith of our Fathers."
The author has tried to be fair and impartial to
all. More might have been said in praise of all, but
this would have made the book too large and expen-
sive for the limited number to be sold, the object in
writing this history was not to point out defects, or
to exalt anyone, but simply to give a few facts of
interest to all. The writer undertook this tedious and
laborious task himself. These descendants are locat-
ed in about twenty different states and countries.
The writer received many words of praise and
appreciation for starting this Gerber History rela-
tion, and hope to see it printed in book form or in
a Family Tree.
The author wants to thank all those that so will-
ingly assisted in helping to make this history record
possible. In conclusion, he begs pardon for any er-
rors that may have occurred in names and dates.
Your relative,
E. P. Gerber, Kidron, Ohio.
HISTORICAL INTRODUCTION
to the
MICHAEL GERBER CHRONICLE
The history of Deacon Michael Gerber and his
descendants is rooted in the soil of the Swiss Reform-
ation of the sixteenth century and entangled in the
maze of the roots of the Mennonite denomination,
which sprang up as an offshoot of the Reformation
started by the Swiss Reformer, Ulrich Zwingli at
Zurich, Switzerland about the year 1525. This off-
shoot was occasioned by the fact that some of
Zwingli's chief co-workers began to disagree with
their chief in regard to certain cardinal doctrines
such as conformation with the world, baptism of
infants, swearing of oath, and warfare. As Zwingli
insisted on conformity with his doctrines on the part
of his co-workers and followers, these nonconform-
ists separated from him and started their own fellow-
ship of believers, who, on account of their rebaptis-
ing of followers upon confession were called "Ana-
baptists" or "Rebaptizers" or (in their own language)
"Wiedertaufer", or, in short, "Taufer" (Baptizers).
As Zwingli's reform movement spread over Switz-
erland, so did the Anabaptists, and so soon reached
the confederate state of Bern, and particularly the
Emmental, a district of hills and mountains and
valleys in the eastern part of the Canton of Bern,
similar to Holmes County, Ohio, "only more so;"
with the prosperous village of Langnau, about twenty
miles east of the city of Bern, as business center of
the whole district, especially famous for its delicious
"Emmentaler" cheese. In this district all the family
names of Sonnenberg, as well as of Putnam County,
this state, and Berne, Indiana, can be found dupli-
cated; among them the Gerbers.
It was especially in the years between 1600 and
1800, that the government of Bern, stirred up by
the pastors of the state church (Reformed) , tried by
persuasion and persecution to bring the "Taufers"
back into the fold of the state church, but with scant
success. Many were forced to emigrate (to the Jura,
Alsace, Germany, Holland and even to America).
But a remnant stayed on, among them the ancestors
of our forefather, Deacon Michael Gerber, on the
"Habbach."
An interesting account of the rough treatment of
the "Taufers" (Mennonites) during the long period
from the time of the Zwingli Reformation at Zurich
about the year 1525 up to the 18th century (1700)
among whom the "Gerber" name very frequently
appears, is shown us in the following documentary
excerpt furnished us by an esteemed relative of
ours. Christian Lerch, employed in the archives of
the government of the Canton Bern, Switzerland.
Only "Gerbers" were selected out of a record of
many others for our family history by Mr. Lerch,
to prove that the Gerbers were numerous among
early Swiss Mennonites.
Excerpts from the Archives of Bern, Switzerland,
of persecution of the "Taufers" (Mennonites) in
Switzerland, in which the following "Gerbers" fig-
8
ured (furnished by C. Lerch, Bern, Switzerland).
In 1566 a minister of the sect by name of Walti
Gerber was beheaded by the government for his
persistent preaching of the Taufer doctrines. The
government caught him finally through a price of
$2,000.00 put on his capture.
In 1596 the wife of one Josiah Gerber was ban-
ished for her faith and her husband was forced to
furnish bail of $1,000 for her.
In 1598 one Hans Gerber was fined for harboring
Taufers. The following year his wife was forced
to forfeit about $12,000 of her property. Later he
was fined again for a similar sum.
In 1673 another "Walti" Gerber was forbidden to
harbor his father because of his faith.
In 1709 one Hans Gerber and wife had to hide
themselves from arrest, because he was the minister
of a congregation of Taufers and kept on preaching
contrary to government orders. They were finally
caught. What their fate was is not recorded. One
who had given the couple hiding was banished for
three months.
About the same time one Elsbeth Gerber, wife
of Peter Gerber, was banished with a number of
others to the West Indies. Others at this time
were "banished" to Pennsylvania, then a new Quak-
er Colony (may they not have been the pioneers of
Lancaster County?) Among these was one Michael
Gerber from Langnau.
In 1711 a number were sent to Holland, among
them one Peter Gerber. Another, Ulli Gerber was
sent to Germany.
9
In 1712 one Hans Gerber was condemned to the
galleys in Italy. This was equivalent to a death
sentence, as nearly all galley slaves perished in
service. He was a deacon. Others were imprisoned.
Some escaped and turned up again in their homes
in Emmental.
From the above it appears that the Gerbers were
one of the most numerous and influential family
names among the Taufers in the Emmental, around
Langnau. Among these were the "Habbach" Ger-
bers of our family story, who lived in a hill com-
munity near Langnau, to the east of the town, the
ancestral home of our forefather, Deacon Michael
Gerber.
As said already, many of the persecuted Bernese
Mennonites, in the 17th and 18th centuries, fled to
the Bishopric of Basle, to Sonnenberg and surround-
ings, where they were at least tolerated. In 1797,
the territory of the said Bishopric was annexed to
France, and in 1815, the Congress of Vienna incor-
porated it to the Canton of Berne, i. e., to Switzer-
land. The Act of Reunion, issued on November 3,
1815, by representatives of the Canton of Bern and
of the former Bishopric, says in its Article 13: "The
now living Mennonites and their descendants will
enjoy the protection of the laws and their worship-
ing will be tolerated." Conditions are: "registering
of their marriages and births of children in the
official rolls; solemn promise with hand-shaking in-
stead of oath, and in case of trespassing incurs the
same punishment as for oath-breaking (perjury) ; no
personal military service but salarying of substitutes
is required."
10
A few weeks later on, the leaders of the Men-
nonites in the former Bishopric (now Bernese Jura)
met at Bevilard, not far from Chaluet, and commis-
sioned a public notary to write a letter of thanks to
the Bernese Government. It would be a big job to
translate the whole letter, as it is written in a cere-
monious style. Its main ideas are as follows:
"High and Well Born Gracious Lords.
We, the leaders and deputies of the Mennonites
living in the former Bishopric of Basle and in other
regions of your Graces' Country, come to express
to you the feelings of our thankfully beating hearts
as much as this can be done by words. Thanks to
the Almighty God, and thanks to Your High Graces'
kindness and benevolence, we again have a father-
land, we again have a kind, gracious and paternal
Government. We are worth neither the Grace that
God bestowed on us nor the gracious benevolence
and kindness of our Government. We just can raise
our eyes and hearts to the Almighty God, praying
that He may increase the honour, the glory and the
happiness of our dear fatherland and conserve it
in sweet peace, bless our gracious Government, direct
its members with the spirit of His Wisdom, give
them a long life and afterwards the majestic Crown
of the eternal life. Please permit the expression
of our hearty thanks, love, faithfulness and devo-
tion."
Bevilard, January 11, 1816.
Signed
Ulrich Rothlisberger
Jacob Engel
Michael Gerber.
11
Now, who was Michael Gerber, one of the three
men that met at Bevilard and signed the letter?
A sure answer cannot be given. However, as I
understand, Michael Gerber, your ancestor, who
emigrated to the U. S. A. in 1822, was a minister.
There is no minister of this name mentioned in the
lists of 1823 and later years. So, we may suppose
that it is the same man. His signature, the original
document is still at the State's Archives at Bern, is
that of a farmer, more trained to the plough and
tools than to the pen. But the characters are clear
and distinct. They express sincerity and faithful-
ness. If really your ancestor M. Gerber was one of
the three men, your family may be proud of him.
As a leader of the Mennonites, which then were
more numerous in Switzerland than nowadays, per-
haps, he deserves a thankful memory.
C. Lerch, Bern, Switzerland.
A NEW SONG COMPOSED FROM OUR FORE-
FATHERS LEAVING SWITZERLAND 1822
1st gleich diese Reise beschwerlich bis in Nord
Amerika so ist das End doch herrlich, bald sind wir
dem Ziele nah. Ist auch vor uns verschlossen, dasz
der Tod uns nahe geht, ziehen wir doch unverdro-
szen Gottes Wille der besteht.
Although this journey to North America may be
a burden and hardship, yet we are looking beyond
to a glorious joyful reward. Soon our departure is
12
here. May death stare us in the face, yet we are
not discouraged for God's will does ever remain.
Translated from German to English by Manes
Gerber, Pandora, Ohio, 1936
(Tune: My Jesus I Love Thee)
Come! Comrades dear, arise! Spring is drawing near
To sail for North America; We'll go without a fear.
We pray to God in heaven good fortune to provide,
With His abiding presence to embrace us and to guide.
We have chosen for our captain, Jesus Christ the way,
He will be our pilot to guide us day by day;
He will lead us safely on land and on the sea
And guard off the tempter wherever we may be.
Joyful be our journey on sea and on the land,
God to lead us daily with his Father hand.
Switzerland of Europe — we leave it all behind,
We'll venture in pursuit another land to find.
Beloved Fatherland and friends we love so dear,
The moment is now here which makes us feel so drear,
We may be parting now never to meet again
As long as life may last which fills our hearts with pain.
Our departure here is but a moment there,
In Eternity — a reunion we'll all be there to share;
Where we'll rest in joy and peace; banished every care,
We pray thee, Lord, by grace, a place for us prepare.
We extend our hand to you and bid you all farewell,
God bless you every one wherever you may dwell.
Good-bye! Sisters, brethren, kindred, friend,
This is our message we now to you do send.
We join to thank you all for every good us done,
Forgive us all, we pray, if we offended one.
A last good-bye to all, we go in the name of the Lord.
Sail on! Our Captain and our Lord, as we are all aboard.
13
0<u««.-<#»ttfei
The above model sailing ship was used in the early 18th
century. Our ancestor Jacob Gerber's diary, recorded else-
where in this book, gave description of this ship as 99 feet
long, 23 feet wide on deck, and the masts were 125 feet
high, and the ship ran 13 feet in water. Their journey on
sea was as follows: boarded ship at Havre, France, on May
31, 1822, and landed at New York August 4, which made
the voyage trip on sea 66 days.
14
A DIARY OF OUR FOREFATHERS
Journeying from Switzerland to America
The following is a chronicle concerning Michael
Gerber, and his five children, his brother, Ulrich,
and nephew, Jacob Gerber, and a sister, Barbara, an
account of their emigration from Switzerland to
what is now known as Sonnenberg, Ohio. The diary-
is copied from a little booklet written by Jacob
Gerber in his own hand, which is still in possession
of his grandson, Jacob P. Gerber, of this place. The
account, however, is impossible of word for word
translating from German to English especially with
reference to spelling of names and places which the
writer wrote, not as they were written in French
or English, but as they sounded to him in Swiss,
so it is often impossible to identify them on the atlas.
Then, too, some of the reading of his booklet, plain
enough perhaps to people of his own nationality and
age, would be rather meaningless to his descendants
here now. Then again the translater has added need-
ed explanation to make the account more intelligible.
The above party started their journey April 22,
1822, from their home in Switzerland, (Langnau).
Two days later we reached the border of France,
where all of their belongings were examined, and
contracts were signed for emigration. On the twen-
ty-fourth (following the diary quoted direct) we
reached Montbeliard, France, and on the 26th, the
city of Besancon; on the 29th, Dijon. We passed
through many other cities and villages of France
15
till by the 9th of May we reached Paris and stayed
two days. Proceeding on the 14th we passed through
Rouen and a day or two later Havre de Gras was
reached, where we had to wait two weeks for our
sriip. So our trip from our home so far took us 29
days.
On the 31st of May we sailed from Havre for New
York. First we sailed two hours out of the harbor,
then anchor was lowered and we stopped there for
three days, till on June 3rd, early morning, 1:00 A. M.,
we proceeded on our trip across the Atlantic. We
had mostly nice weather and but little storm. We
passed several ships, the first one on the 17th of
June, which stopped and talked to us. Sometimes
goods were exchanged from one ship to the other,
mostly eatables, water and wine. The next boat to
stop for us was on the 29th; another on July 4th;
another on July 6th, and so on every few days. On
the 22nd day out on the ship, we rationed our water.
Each person got two quarts a day.
The ship rolled terribly, so it was hard to walk on
deck. Of course, there was a banister all around
the deck so no one need fall off. Room is quite lim-
ited. First the provisions and the wine barrels and
water. Our sleeping quarters were double deck, up-
per and lower bed, each about two feet wide. When
the weather is nice we are on deck about all day.
The floors were scrubbed every day. Whosoever had
any infectious disease is separated from the rest of
the personnel. Three of our company had to be
separated onto the deck and had to sleep in the
open air. The personnel is divided in three com-
16
panies; first the sailors in the front part of the ship;
then the common passengers in the middle and in
the back part the first class passengers. When there
is no wind the ship cannot go. The sails must always
be turned according to the wind and directions the
ship sailed.
Our ship ran thirteen feet in the water. The ship
was twenty-three feet wide on deck and ninety-nine
feet long. The masts were one hundred twenty -four
feet high. Anchor is never lowered on high sea as it
is too deep.
I would repeat, if I were to make the trip again,
I would take all possible eatables along, as some of
the eatables in France are very bad, such as meat;
also, drinking water.
On July 30th we first saw land, but we didn't land
till August 4th which made our voyage on the sea
66 days.
We stayed in New York seven days; bought nec-
essary provisions, a wagon, and started on our trek.
We left New York, August 11th, across New Jersey,
by way of Brunswick and Trenton to Philadelphia
where we stopped several days and were met by
some Mennonites who helped us on our way to
Lancaster County where there is a large and pros-
perous Mennonite Settlement, who were very kind
and hospitable to us. We stopped several days here
too and made ready for our long trek across the
state of Pennsylvania with all its mountains. Leav-
ing Strasburg in Lancaster County on August 25th
we kept a pretty straight westward course, as the
roads and mountains would permit, by way of such
17
towns as Huntertown, after crossing the wide Sus-
quehanna River. Then on to Chambersburg, after
which there was almost continual mountain cross-
ing for nearly one hundred miles; up the mountains,
down the valleys, across the rivers and creeks where
there were hardly any bridges. We passed through
many villages and towns, like Bedford, Johnstown,
and Greensburg, and the city of Pittsburgh. Most
of the mountains are between Chambersburg and
Johnstown, about half a dozen high ridges. Some of
these we crossed through gaps where rivers run
through. From Johnstown the road was much bet-
ter till we reached Pittsburgh. This was really the
first city we came to after leaving Philadelphia, the
rest being still quite small towns and villages.
After leaving Pittsburgh where we could stock
up again with provisions, we drove on westward
through the villages of Beaver Falls, last town in
Pennsylvania, then Lisbon, Paris, and Canton, Ohio,
small trading towns, and on into the wilderness till
we reached the Sugar Creek, on September the 14th,
1822. So we made the trip from New York to Sugar
Creek in forty-one days and the total time of the
trip 145 days. That's a remarkable achievement on
wagon drawn by oxen, a trip of about 400 miles, an
average of twenty miles a day. I would let you know
what I would take along on the journey if I should
make the trip again. The best is dried fruit, such
as cherries, prunes, pears, and apples; cured sausage,
potatoes dried also; a keg of water, sugar, honey,
vinegar, dried bread, bacon, mostly pickled or salted
in kegs; the same way butter; "Zwieback" (hard
18
toasted bread) and bread is salted but little. Meat
is better either cooked or pickled before packed in
kegs. It must be cut small for that purpose when
packed in kegs. It must be packed in lard, care must
be taken that the meat nowhere touches the wood
of the keg.
Jacob Gerber.
19
WHEN DEACON MICHAEL GERBER
ARRIVED ON SONNENBERG
The Country in 1822
When our forefathers arrived in the wilds of Sugar
Creek township in 1822, the United States, as a gov-
ernment, had existed only 33 years since the inaug-
uration of George Washington as its first president,
and James Monroe, its fifth president, had just start-
ed his second term of administration. True enough,
its territory even then extended from the Atlantic
to the Pacific Ocean; but all of its territory west of
the Mississippi River excepting a few settlements
like New Orleans and St. Louis was still a howling
wilderness of Indians and Buffaloes. There were no
states west of the river except Louisiana, and Mis-
souri, although containing only a few thousand in-
habitants on the west bank of the Mississippi River,
was that year admitted into the Union as the 24th
state. The white population of the whole United
States was then about ten million.
The State of Ohio
The State of Ohio was only ten years old in 1822,
almost its entire population then living along the
Ohio River. Columbus, the capital, was laid out
only ten years before Michael's arrival, as a village
in a primeval forest and became the capital of the
state four years later, about the same time Wooster
had become the county seat of Wayne County.
20
Wayne County
Wayne County, as now is, was still very much a
wilderness when Deacon Michael Gerber arrived.
Only fourteen years before the first house was built
in what now is Wooster, the county seat to which
it was made a few years later by state law. Wayne
County was established by proclamation of General
Arthur St. Clair when the North West Territory was
created into a government and he was chosen its
Governor from 1788 to 1803 when Ohio was admitted
to the union.
It must be remembered from its original bound-
ary, as proclaimed by Governor St. Clair, that Wayne
County embraced a large area of the old Northwest
Territory. It included about one-third part of the
present State of Ohio, one-eighth part of the State
of Indiana, the northeast corner of Illinois (including
the site of the city of Chicago), the eastern part,
about one-fifth of the present state of Wisconsin, the
whole state of Michigan, all of Lake Michigan, and
half of Lake Superior, Huron, and St. Clair, and
Northwest part of Lake Erie, covered an area of
133,000 square miles, a larger area than England,
Scotland, Ireland and Wales. (The 150th Anniversary
celebration was held in 1938 in memory of the North-
west Territory which was created by the Govern-
ment in 1787.)
Wayne County was surveyed into ranges and
townships by the government of the United States
in the year of 1807.
Sugar Creek Township was organized only 10
years prior to Michael Gerber's arrival, in 1812.
The first settlers in Sugar Creek Township were
21
John Kenney and John Goudy, which was about
1809, and in 1819 Peter and Ulrich Lehman, Isaac
Sommer and David Kirchhofer came from Switzer-
land and made their temporary home in the log
school house where No. 2 school house now stands
near the State Experiment Station. About two
months later they moved to Sugar Creek Township
and founded the settlement of Sonnenberg. In 1822
two more families joined them; one our ancestor
Michael Gerber and his children and brother Ulrich
and sister Barbara.
Arriving in the new settlement here, he acquired
the southeast quarter of Section 28, etc., in Sugar
Creek Township, for $450.00, where his great-grand-
son, Rufus Gerber, now lives, and with his sturdy
sons, John and Ulrich, proceeded to carve a home-
stead out of the tough wildwood. The original deed
for this quarter section was obtained by one George
Pfoutz, of Harrison County, down near the Ohio
River; by an act providing for the sale of a tract of
land in Northwest Territory; he had deposited in
the General Land Office at Canton, Ohio, a certi-
ficate of the Register, that full payment had been
made for this parcel of land.
Howe says: When Wooster was first settled in
1807, there were no white inhabitants between Woos-
ter and Lake Erie, and on the west none short of
the Maumee River and Fort Wayne, Indiana; on
the south, none until within a few miles of Co-
shocton, and those on the Tuscarawas were the near-
est on the East. The following is the record of pop-
ulation when the first census was taken in Wayne
County:
22
In 1810 the population was 332
In 1820 the population was 11,993
In 1860 the population was 32,438
In 1920 the population was 41,346.
The population of Ohio in 1800 was 236,365.
Building of the Ohio Canal
Running from Cleveland to Portsmouth, on the
Ohio River, a distance of 307 miles, work was be-
gun on the Ohio Canal in 1825, and completed in
1832, at a cost of $5,000,000.
Surveys were made through Wayne County in
1823, from the head of the Kilbuck, and on south
through the County to Millersburg. A sale of town
lots was offered in May 1824 in Millersburg, which
reads: The situation is high, pleasant and healthy
on the navigable water, and on the Kilbuck line of
the Ohio Canal.
It is said the route through Wayne County was
defeated by a single vote, which then went through
Massillon, the Ohio Canal furnished a ready market
for farmers, and paid cash for their produce. The
date of its completion defines the transition period
in the early history of Wayne County. The nearest
flour mill at that time was at Canton, to which the
early pioneer went on horse back with a sack of
wheat to be ground into flour, which took one day's
trip to the mill and the next day he would go back
home.
Corn was a new product to the new settlers which
name arrived from the Indian, called Indian Corn.
It was then greatly relished when made into mush
and fried, and, also, baked into corn bread.
23
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26
The above picture is the present and third building
built on the old homestead, the barn was built in 1889 and
the house was built in 1898 by Daniel M. Gerber, and is
now occupied by Rufus Gerber, Fourth Generation. This
parcel of land still remains in the same family since it was
purchased from the Government land agent in 1822.
27
First and Second Church built by the Mennonite Swiss
Congregation, 1834 and 1861 respectively.
The Sonnenberg settlement had its beginning in the
year 1819 and in 1820 the Sonnenberg Mennonite Church
was organized. The first minister was John Lehman, and
in 1822 Michael Gerber arrived from Switzerland and was
their first deacon. Before this church was built in 1834
there were about two dozen families, who had all arrived
from Switzerland and had their worship in private homes.
The size of the church house was 30 feet by 30 feet and
was made from logs hewn on two sides. The attic was used
as a council room. This church building was also used for
school purposes. The second church house was built in
1861, size 40 feet by 50 feet.
iii
in
in
J-
n
r nC"
-l — r
ST
Inside of the First Church (log) house
built at Sonnenberg in 1834
Two persons are living (1938) in the Settlement that
have attended church services and also went to the Ger-
man school in the above named building about eighty
years ago: namely, D. A. Schneck and Mrs. Peter Sommer,
Sr., (Grandma Anna Sommer). Although she has lost her
eye sight, she has a very keen remembrance of this church
building and could relate much information described
herein. Six months of school was the winter term and six
weeks for the summer school. Teachers were hired if they
could read, write and figure for teaching, only in German.
Reading, writing, spelling and arithmetic were all the
studies required.
The benches or seats were made of slab boards, and
the minister's and singer's table in the center of the room,
were removed and taken up in the attic when school was
in session, and again put up for church services which
were held every two weeks on the Sabbath day.
The figure 1 represents the minister's table in center
of the room, and figure 2 was the table for the song leader
and other brethren and sisters that joined the singing, but
all was congregational singing and in unison. Figure 3 was
the old men's corner, facing toward the center table, as did
also all the others. Figure 4 was the women's place. Figure
5 was the young girls; Figure 6 was for the young men or
boys. The figure 7, access to the attic from the door outside,
where the ministers had their council room. Entrance doors
were at each end of the aisle. The north door was for wom-
en and the south door for men.
When going to church all walked, old and young, and
they enjoyed it, for they had the great privilege to wor-
ship God in a land where freedom of worship of the Creator
was unmolested.
29
First Burial Place of the Sonnenberg Church
Elizabeth (Lederman) Gerber was the first person
buried there. She was the wife of Ulrich Gerber, a brother
to Michael of this genealogy. About 60 other pioneers of
the settlement were buried there and nearly that many
children, but no record has been kept of the children if
they had not joined as members of the Church. Only one
some relative descendents erected a tombstone with the
sandstone marker was erected there for the graves. In 1900
following German inscription:
Hier ruht mancher miide Pilger,
Die fur Jesu tapfer kampfen,
Frohlich werden sie einst auferstehn
Und zu Jesus in den Himmel gehn.
30
INTRODUCTION, GENEALOGY OF CHRISTIAN
GERBER, FATHER OF MICHAEL
christian
Gerber
Jorn 1730
?o record
:ound of
his wife
1. Michael
Gerber
Born 1763
Married
Anna Neuen-
schwander
Born about
1769
2. Christian
Born 1768
Married
Anna
Habegger
3. Barbara, born
1773, married
Ulrich Lehman
4. Ulrich, born
1783
first wife
Elizabeth
Lederman
Second wife
Barbara Falb
1. Barbara Gerber Hofstetter
2. Anna Gerber Zuercher
3. Catharina Gerber Falb
4. John M. Gerber
1 5. Ulrich Gerber
The descendants
of these five
children are
recorded in this
genealogy.
1. Jacob Gerber
first wife
Anna Lehman
Second wife
Elizabeth Lehman
2. Catharina Gerber
Married Pete
Liechty. Pete
died in Swit-
zerland, Cath-
arina came to
U. S. A., 1853.
Voyage on sail
boat 30 days.
1. Christian died
in boyhood.
2. Elizabeth G.
J. Baumgartner. No children.
3. Peter J. Gerber. 3 children.
- 4. Magdalena
Abe Schwartz. No children.
5. Anna married
Peter Sommer. 8 children.
6. Katharine married
Dan Tschantz. No children.
1. Barbara, born 1813, married
Clause Liechty. 5 children.
2. Christian, born 1815, married
Anna Lugibihl. 10 children.
3. Anna, born 1818, married
U. Schwartz. 2 children, died.
4. Jacob, born 1821, married
Manna Marie Tschume. 8 children,
5. Emanuel, born 1825, died 1920,
married Elizabeth Kirchhofer,
born May 21, 1845. 14 children.
6. Marianna, born 1828. married
David Winteregg. 7 children.
7. Elizabeth, born 1828, married
Jacob Steiner. 10 children.
8. Rebecca, married
Peter C. A. Lehman,
Fortuna, Mo. 7 children.
No children
1. Christian Gerber, born Sept. 6, 1823
Putnam County, Ohio.
Four children.
2. Abraham Gerber
married Magdalena
Hofstetter on Jan.
10, 1856, by Ulrich Sommer
These descendants are recorded
in this Genealogy.
3. Michael U. Gerber, born July 7, 1832,
baptized April 18, 1851.
Seven children.
4. Catharine U. Gerber,
married Christ Straum
May 4, 1852, by Peter
Schneck. No further
record obtained.
FRAGMENTARY HISTORICAL INTRODUC-
TION OF OUR ANCESTOR AND
RELATIVES
To trace the ancestry back to the first man who
bore the name of Gerber would indeed be a very-
interesting bit of history, but this is an impossibility,
however desirable. The name Gerber evidently
originated from the occupation in which the man
who first received his name from the trade he was
engaged in. The German name Gerber means Tan-
ner (a tanner of hides) . Many names thus originated.
The author of this book was successful in getting
history records concerning the Gerber family from
the manuscript collection of the States Archives of
the Canton of Bern, Switzerland, concerning Men-
nonites (Anabaptists) of the Gerber families, dating
back to the year 1566 and up to the seventeenth
century, by our friend and relative Christ Lerch an
employee at the Archives of Bern, Switzerland.
Thanks to him for his great effort put forth, by which
he has done all that could be traced which was on
records, regarding our ancestors, given elsewhere
in this book. You will note the History of Persecu-
tion of the Gerbers dated from the year 1566 and
later. The relation could not be traced that far
back, yet it is possible that some of the martyrs were
our ancestors. According to the following statement
signed as follows: An act of Reunion was issued on
November 5, 1815, by the government, to the Men-
nonites, for their protection by law and their wor-
32
shipping privileges. A few weeks later on, the lead-
ers of the Mennonites met at Bevilard and commis-
sioned a public notary to write a letter of thanks
to the Bernese Government (letter written else-
where in this book) which was signed by:
Ulrich Rotlishberger
Jacob Engel
Michael Gerber.
Here is where we have our first record of our an-
cestor, Deacon Michael Gerber, a minister recorded
at that time, and then went to U. S. A. in the year
1822, and as there was no minister recorded there
by that name after 1823, he deserves a thankful
memory as a leader of the Mennonites.
The author will make note here: The relatives of
our ancestor who were also pioneers in our Sonnen-
berg settlement in the Gerber relationship but
belonged to one generation before Michael, which
would have made it the eighth generation, and are
not counted in the total of this genealogy.
Michael's father's name was Christian Gerber, date
of whose birth was not given, but was born about
1730. His wife's name could not be traced. Four
children were born to them according to the record
found at Chaluet, Switzerland: Michael, born 1763;
Christian, 1768; Barbara, 1773; Ulrich, 1783. The
above were all born at Chaluet, a lonesome valley
in the parish of Court, Switzerland. The following
is a brief trace of the four children:
I. Michael, the stem of the genealogy in this book,
went to U. S. A. 1822.
33
II. Christian, born February 21, 1768, and died May
12, 1850. Married Anna Habegger, February 5,
1788. Anna was born 1761, died Sept. 15, 1811.
They lived at Chaluet, Switzerland, the only one
of the four children that did not come to Amer-
ica. Two children, Jacob and Catharina, were
born.
1. Jacob Gerber, born May 29, 1790 and died April
10, 1869. Jacob was born at Chaluet and at
the age of 32 years went to America in 1822
with his uncle, Michael Gerber. (Refer cor-
responding letter from Switzerland elsewhere
in this book. Page 37.) Here he married Anna
P. Lehman May 1826. Anna died April 28,
1839. The following children were born to
this union:
1) Christian, died in childhood.
2) Elizabeth, born October 14, 1831 and died
in 1917. She was married to Jacob Baum-
gartner. Had no children.
3) Peter J. Gerber was born January 12, 1838
and died May 13, 1913. He was married to
Maryann Nussbaum June 5, 1873. Three
children were born to this union: Jacob,
Joshua, and David (deceased).
Jacob Gerber was again married the sec-
ond time to Elizabeth Lehman, April 21,
1842. The children from this issue are Mag-
dalena, Anna and Katharina.
4) Magdalena, born October 16, 1843 and died
. She was married to Abe Schwartz
October 8, 1893 and had no children.
34
5) Anna was born June 21, 1847. Was mar-
ried to Peter Sommer. Anna was the fourth
child born to Jacob Gerber, and is still liv-
ing. She attended school and worshipped
in the first church built in 1834 on Son-
nenberg, and was also privileged to attend
at the fourth church house built 1937 where
she worships. Eight children were born to
this union: William, deceased; Jacob, de-
ceased; Daniel; Sarah, deceased; she was
the first wife of E. P. Gerber, compiler of
this book; David; Joel; Fanny; Christ and
Emma.
6) Katharine was born August 28, 1848 and
died December 23, 1922. She married
Daniel Tschantz October 22, 1874. Both
were of the Sonnenberg Church. No chil-
dren were born to them.
Catharina Gerber, only daughter of Christian
Gerber, brother to Michael. She was born
February 5, 1792 and was married to Peter
Liechty, 1812, both from Chaluet. Peter was
born September 16, 1780, and died in Switzer-
land. Catharina, with eight children, came to
America in 1853 and settled, first on Sonnen-
berg, later went to Berne, Indiana, where most
all of the children had settled down. Cath-
arina died 1875. Their children's names are
Barbara, Christian, Anna, Jacob, Emanuel,
Marianna, Elizabeth, and Rebecca.
1) Barbara, born 1813, married to Clause
Liechty. To them were born five children,
35
Clause and Johanas, twins, Solomon, Chris-
tian and Elizabeth.
2) Christian Liechty, born 1815, married Anna
Luginbuhl. They had ten children, whose
names are Katy, Jacob, Emanuel, Benedict,
Marian, Christian, John, Peter, Anna and
Rachel.
3) Anna, born 1818, married Ulrich Schwartz.
Two children were born to them but both
died.
4) Jacob L. born 1821, married Manna Marie
Tschume. Eight children were born to
them: Samuel, Emanuel, Christian, Jacob,
Peter, Elizabeth, Anna and Joel.
5) Emanuel, born 1825, died 1920, married
Elizabeth Kirchhofer (b. 1845, d. 1892). He
came to America in 1853, with his mother,
settled first in Wayne County, Ohio. Ten
years later went to Adams Co., Indiana.
They were blessed with fourteen children
as follows: Carolina, Kathrina, Sarah, Emil,
Edward, Henry, Mary, Samuel, Fred, Ida,
Lena, Amos, Elizabeth and Bertha.
6) Marianna, born 1828, married David Win-
teregg. Seven children were born to this
union: Elizabeth, John, Anna, David, Judith,
Dan and Joel.
7) Elizabeth, born 1828, married Jacob Steiner.
Ten children were born to this union, Sam,
John, (one son died), Jacob, (Sarah, died),
Rebecca, Fred, Mary, Christina, Anna.
36
8) Rebecca, born married Peter C. A. Leh-
man, Fortuna, Missouri. Seven children
were born to them: Carolina, Mary, Ben,
Frank, Katy, Reuben and Harve.
A letter written on March 6, 1842, by Christian Gerb2r
of Switzerland to his son, Jacob Gerber in America:
Chaluet, Switzerland, March 6, 1842.
My dear son, Jakob Gerber:
God's infinite kindness may bless you on earth, but
chiefly up there in the eternity with heavenly goods. The
Grace of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, Amen.
At this occasion I have purposed myself to write. I
am well, thanks to God. I wish this might meet you also
in good health. Last summr (two words unintelligible) I
mailed a letter, in which I wrote that Christian Wiedmer
at Montgirod has given me 8 Neutaler ($44.00) on Feb-
ruary 26, 1841. My dear son, Jakob Gerber, please give to
Elizabeth Wiedmer or to Christian Wali these 8 Neutaler
and 15 batzen of interest from the interest of my money.
I many times wished to be with you, but my daughter
has told me to wait until she will be able to come with me
Peter Liechti has still rented three farms, the old Hut and
the place where Jacob Migel (?) formerly lived, and the
one close to his, where Christen lived formerly, He has
to pay about 40 Louisd'or ($220.00) for all them (a year).
He buys and sells young horses, he has about 10 (15?), less
or more. They are at high price now, from 12 to 18
Louisd'or ($66.00 to $99.00). Our people in age to do
military service, from 20 to 40 years, must now pay 3
Neutaler ($16.50) a year (instead of personal service),
before it was only 2 Neutaler ($11.50).
I have the daughter of my daughter with me, Anna,
which is married to Ulrich Schwartz. They have a daugh-
ter, Annalisi. Ulrich lives with his father and mother
at the place where Peter Bichsel formerly lived. Christen
Liechti, son of Peter Liechti. is also married. His wife
is Anna Lugenbul. Her father came from the Emmental
37
a few years ago. He has bought the farm where Durs
Moser formerly lived. Christen Liechti lives also with
him. You may use the yarn and cloth of my sister, as you
like it, and also from the brothers, or give to poor people
if there are some, or keep it for you as you like it.
Jakob Moser at Petit Champoz will give me 30 Neu-
taler ($165.00) from his mother-in-law, to be sent to
America. My dear son, J. G., kindly give to the three chil-
dren of the mother-in-law the 30 Neutaler from the in-
terest of my money. I have 74 Neutaler, ($470.00) this is
the interest of the money of my sister for 8 years. I have
given to Christen Tschantz (or Schwartz?) two (one word
unintelligible) question books (catechism) for your chil-
dren. I saw in it that you have divided in peace. I will
make an end to my simple letter. Think of me in your
prayers like I am willing to do for you. I greet you all
together by Jesus Christ, Amen. Send me an answer.
Christen Garber.
III. Barbara Gerber Hofstetter, born at Chaluet,
Canton Berne, Switzerland in 1773, came to
America with her brother, Michael in 1822. She
was married to Ulrich Lehman by Rev. John
Lehman on New Year's Day, 1823. This was the
first wedding that was performed in the new
congregation. Since there was no church house
yet, the wedding was held at Rev. John Leh-
man's home. The whole congregation was in-
vited to this service, which were about twelve
families. Brother Abraham Lehman came to
the service with wooden shoes. This service on
New Year's Day brought great joy to the chil-
dren as they had never seen any of such like
before, but there was no excess of table eats
and in dressing of clothing. They built a home
where Homer Steiner lives, and the first house is
38
standing yet. The first story was built of flat
stones, the wall being about eighteen inches
thick, and the second story was built of logs.
There were no children from this issue.
IV. Ulrich Gerber, born 1783, died 1869, a brother to
Michael, also came to America at the same time.
Ulrich was married in Switzerland to Elizabeth
Ledermann; she soon died after they arrived in
the settlement, and was the first person that was
buried at the Sonnenberg settlement. They had
one son, Christian, who lived at Putnam County,
Ohio. Christian was born in Wayne County,
Ohio, September 6, 1823, and died December 2,
1887. He was married to Mary Basinger, June
1, 1854. Mary, born March 3, 1833. Died June
8, 1917.
Four children were born to this union:
1. Elizabeth, born April 21, 1855, married to Sam
Amstutz, Bluffton, Ohio.
2. Leah, born August 5, 1857, married Peter B.
Amstutz.
3. David, born February 18, 1860, died Decem-
ber 22, 1935, was married to Fanny Spollinger.
She was born April 13, 1861, died December
24, 1906. Four children were born to this
union: Amos, Klara, Ruth and Mary.
1) Amos, born June 17, 1887, married Emma
Keiner. They have two children, Lucile,
born November 23, 1911, and married Ma-
rion Hochstetter, and they have one child.
David, born January 18, 1935.
39
2) Klara Gerber, born July 19, 1890, married
John Habegger. They have three children.
3) Ruth Gerber, born April 27, 1892, married
Noah Steiner. Two children were born to
them.
4) Mary Gerber, born July 31. 1894, married
Evan Davis.
4. Hanna, fourth child of Christ Gerber, born
July 26, 1865, died 1928.
Ulrich married the second wife, Barbara Falb.
The following children came to this union:
1. Catharina was married to Christian Straum
in 1852 by Peter Schneck.
2. Michael U. Gerber was baptized April 18,
1841 at Sonnenberg, Ohio. He was married,
name not recorded. They had seven children.
Thomas, married a Frey. Phillip, married a
sister to Thomas' wife. Mary, married John
Bracy. Benjamin, is single. Ruth, married
Jacob Haury. Martha, born 1868, married Ben
Habegger. Elizabeth, born 1875, married
John Gerber.
3. Abraham Gerber, married Magdalena Hof-
stetter, a daughter of Peter Hofstetter. Abra-
ham's descendants are recorded in this gen-
ealogy. (See under Branch A, Section II.)
40
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W
FIRST GENERATION
Deacon Michael Gerber
Stem of this Genealogy
Michael was born in the year 1763 at Chaluet,
Switzerland (day and month not recorded) and rear-
ed in this lonesome mountain valley, in the Parish
of Court, where he grew to manhood. His parents
came from Habbach, a place in the Emmental, near
Langnau, about 40 miles from the Sonnenberg, from
where some of our pioneers came to America. In
his early youth he accepted his Savior and was bap-
tized into the Mennonite Faith. In the year 1796
he was married to Anna Neuenschwander of the
Emmenthal community of the same faith. She was
born the same year as Michael was.
They were blessed with five children, three daugh-
ters and two sons, Barbara, Anna, Catharina, John
and Ulrich. Michael's wife died two years before
they came to America, April 9, 1820, and was buried
at Court, Township seat, where this record was
found.
Michael was ordained as Deacon by lot, as the
custom was (date and name of place not recorded).
His ordination was made in Switzerland, and he was
the first deacon in this Sonnenberg community
where the Sonnenberg Swiss Mennonite church was
organized.
This is the extent of the record of Michael's life
42
obtained by our friend, Christ Lerch, Bern, Switzer-
land, through his diligent search. The story of the
trip to America and the times and conditions under
which Michael pioneered on this Sonnenberg is found
elsewhere in this book.
Father Michael lived to the ripe old age of 78
years, dying March 24, 1841, and was buried at the
first burial cemetery at Sonnenberg and went on
to his reward.
SECOND GENERATION
BRANCH A
Barbara (Gerber) Hofstetter
Barbara Gerber (Hofstetter), oldest daughter of
Deacon Michael Gerber, was born in Switzerland,
August 1, 1797. She was reared in the Mennonite
Church there and emigrated with her father to this
country when 25 years old, in 1822. After she was
in this country about a year she was wooed and
won by a young man of the new settlement by the
name of Peter Hofstetter who had arrived in this
country the year before from Swiss Sonnenberg on
the summit of the Jura Mountains. The wedding
took place the year following her arrival here (1823)
and was solemnized by the bishop of the new con-
gregation here. Barbara died April 28, 1870. Peter
was born 1789 and died September 28, 1837 of Con-
sumption.
Original Copy of Church Membership Letter from
Switzerland
Still in possession by Peter J. Hofstetter
Campton, California
43
Peter Hofstetter (adopted son) of John Hofstetter
was baptized on May 15, 1808, in Langnau, after the
custom of the Mennonites in public service and took
Holy Communion with the brotherhood, each year
on Easter Day, and has been faithful as to our knowl-
edge. Letter of recommendation given at Munster-
berg. March 30, 1821, and had left this community
in peace. Given our signature witness:
Peter Tuth
Ministers
Peter Sprunger
C. P. Diemer
Coy Zar Herrn, U. B.
Ullereich Lehmani, B. A.
This family was blessed with six children: namely,
Katharina, Magdalena, Christ, John, Barbara, and
Elizabeth.
THIRD GENERATION
SECTION I. BRANCH A
Katharina (Hofstetter) Steiner
Katharina Hofstetter, oldest daughter of Barbara
(Gerber) and Peter Hofstetter, was born on her
parent's farm south of Dalton, and baptized by
Bishop Peter Schneck into membership of the Son-
nenberg Mennonite Church, March 31, 1839. She
was married to Christian Steiner of the "Chippewa"
settlement north of Orrville, May 5, 1842 by Bishop
Daniel Steiner of the local Mennonite Church. Chris-
tian was born They went to home
making in Allen County and were granted the fol-
lowing flock of children:
44
FOURTH GENERATION
Peter Althaus and Family
I. Christine Steiner was born as the oldest daughter
of Katharine and Christian Steiner on their farm
in Allen County, September 6, 1848, where she
was reared to young womanhood and joined into
membership of the settlement Mennonite Church.
She was married by Bishop John Moser, her
pastor, near Bluffton, Ohio, to Peter Althaus,
member of the latter's church. The couple went
to home making in Bluffton, where Mr. Althaus
operated a sawmill, lumber yard and soon be-
came a leading manufacturer of that thriving
town. Mrs. Althaus died November 24, 1924,
aged 72 years, 2 months and 18 days. They en-
tered membership of the Mennonite Church in
the settlement and were instrumental in the
building of the First Mennonite Church and also
prominent promoters of Bluffton College there.
Mr. Althaus preceded his wife in death October
1, 1905, aged 64 years, 4 months and 23 days. He
was born May 8, 1841. He was mourned as a
great loss to the community, church and college.
The following children joined the family:
FIFTH GENERATION
1. Amos C. Althaus, Troutdale, Oregon, born July
6, 1876, was married to Lenore Williams, Otta-
wa, Ohio, February 6, 1909, by Rev. E. M. Page,
Ottawa, O. The couple went to Troutdale, Ore-
gon, to farming. Lenore was born October
25, 1883. They have one child:
45
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Helen Florence Althaus, born March 26,
1910. She is a student.
FIFTH GENERATION
Peter Althaus Family Continued
2. William Henry Althaus was born July 11, 1878.
He became an electrician, but died April 10,
1919. He was never married.
3. Mary Emma Althaus was born April 17, 1880
and was married February 27, 1907 to E. T.
Paul, of Bluffton, but settled at Lewisburg,
Preble County, Ohio, where he is engaged in
some trade. Mr. E. T. Paul was born December
10, 1876. They are members of the Lutheran
Church. They have five children, as follows:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Gertrude Christine Paul was born March
12, 1908. She was married March 2, 1931
to Richard K. Ayres. He is engaged as
store manager. The couple belong to the
Methodist Church. They have no children.
2) Mary Virginia Paul, born May 16. 1909, was
married to Ralph Kircher, October 7, 1933.
Mr. Kircher is an advertiser. They are
Presbyterians. They have one son:
SEVENTH GENERATION
(1) Dudley Paul Kircher, born November
12, 1934.
SIXTH GENERATION CONTINUED
3) Edwin LeRoy Paul, Lewisburg, Ohio, born
November 1, 1910. He is clerking. Religion,
Presbyterian.
46
4) James Eugene Paul, born June 6, 1912, sales-
man; religion, Lutheran.
5) Henry Justin Paul, born August 18, 1914,
student, Lutheran.
FIFTH GENERATION
Peter Althaus Family Continued
4. Florence Aldine Althaus was born October 16,
1881 and married to Harl Mann, Bluffton, Ohio,
August 22, 1908 by Rev. Hege. No children
are reported of this union. Mrs. Mann died
December 18, 1912. Mr. Mann is a sales clerk
in a store at Bluffton.
5. Clara Belle Althaus was born December 11,
1883. She died in her childhood, June 17, 1890.
6. Elmer Lee was born April 27, 1885 and died
an infant, May 14, 1887.
7. Lillie May, twin sister of the above, died an
infant, September 11, 1885.
8. Wilbur Ray Althaus, Lewisburg, Ohio, was
born September 12, 1887 at Bluffton, Ohio, and
married February 14, 1915 by Rev. Wm. S.
Gottshall, his pastor, to Vida E. Amstutz.
Farmer. Mrs. Vida was born September 20,
1889, Bluffton, Ohio. They worship at the U. P.
Church. They have three children as below:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) James Horace, born January 2, 1921. Lew-
isburg, Ohio.
2) Margaret Jeanne, born July 6, 1924. Lewis-
burg, Ohio.
3) Judson Paul, born April 6, 1929. Lewis-
burg, Ohio.
47
FOURTH GENERATION
Christian Steiner Family Continued
II. Tobias Steiner, second issue of Katharine (Hof-
stetter) and Christian Steiner, was born January
18, 1844 and married to Elizabeth Steiner, born
January 11, 1849, daughter of John Steiner, No-
vember 7, 1867. The couple lived at Bluffton,
Ohio, and raised the following children:
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
Tobias Steiner Family
1. Martha Steiner was born near Bluffton, Ohio,
January 21, 1869, and married
to Ephraim Steiner of Orrville, Ohio. He was
born July 9, 1867.
The family moved to Oregon and later to Up-
land, California, where he died. The follow-
ing children were born to them:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Gladys Steiner, Molalla, Oregon, was born
March 15, 1895 at Pratum, Oregon. She
is a Methodist. She was married to Marion
Corbin, Molalla, Oregon, by Rev. Holmes
K. Ehrson at Dallas, Oregon, March 20,
1915. Marion was born February 12, 1885.
Have one child.
SEVENTH GENERATION
(1) Norman Corbin, born on September 11,
1921.
SIXTH GENERATION CONTINUED
2) Pharis Steiner, born at Pratum, Oregon,
September 19, 1897, was married to Ina
48
Pool, present address Upland, California.
They are Baptists. One child:
SEVENTH GENERATION
(1) Patricia Marjorie Steiner.
SIXTH GENERATION CONTINUED
3) Elno Steiner, born at Pratum, Oregon, June
21, 1899, was married to Nellie Couper (Ad-
dress, San Diego, California). They are
Presbyterians.
4) Isaiah Steiner, Pratum, Oregon, was born
April 10, 1901. Address, Santa Barbara, Cal-
ifornia. They are Mennonites.
5) Priscilla Steiner, Pratum, Oregon, was born
April 3, 1904. She was married to Fred
Deen, 1694 Massachusetts St., San Bernar-
dino, California. They are Mennonites.
6) Arvilla Steiner, Pratum, Oregon, was born
October 31, 1906. Address. Upland, Cali-
fornia. She is a Mennonite.
FIFTH GENERATION
Tobias Steiner Family Continued
Miriam Steiner, born November 12, 1870, was
married, April 8, 1891, to Rev. Adam Welty,
Lima, Ohio, Rescue Mission. Adam was born
July 3, 1860, a son of Fred and Katharina
(Steiner) Welty on a farm in the settlement
between Bluffton and Pandora, Ohio. First a
public school teacher Mr. Welty launched into
city mission work at Lima, Ohio, where he
has labored devotedly ever since. But Mrs.
Welty, the subject of this paragraph, died in
49
February 26, 1909. (See Rev. Welty's complete
life story in the Welty Book, page 155 ff). To
this union were born the following children:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Glenn Valentine Welty, born February 14,
1892, died March 29, 1893.
2) Sylvanus Roy Welty, Fort Wayne, Indiana,
408-410 Citizens Trust Bldg., born August
1, 1893, was married November 27, 1934 to
Grace Mellen. A Bluffton College graduate,
he first took theological training at Prince-
ton, N. J., and at McCormick, Chicago,
preached a few years and engaged in other
church work, then studied law and is lo-
cated in Fort Wayne, in law practice. They
are Presbyterians.
3) Frederick Arthur Welty, Homestead, Pa.,
born at Berne. Indiana, March 15, 1896. Al-
so graduate of Bluffton College. He is an
accomplished tenorist, minister of music,
teacher and choir director. He was mar-
ried July 1, 1930 to Margaret Koester, Piqua,
Ohio, by Rev. A. D. Welty. They are Pres-
byterians.
4) Ruth Elizabeth Welty, born August 3, 1900,
at Lima, Ohio, was married November 23,
1921 to Chester A. Churchhill, Lima, Ohio.
They are Methodists. Two children were
born to them, died in infancy. Mr. Church-
hill is engaged in road building.
5) Paul David Welty, born July 31, 1902, un-
married, is assisting his father in the mis-
sion.
50
6) Katharine Ann Welty, born September 27,
1904, was married August 2, 1924, to Rev.
C. W. Jones, Chicago, Illinois, by Rev. Paul
Rader. Rev. and Mrs. Jones are mission-
aries at Quito, Ecuador, South America.
Children:
SEVENTH GENERATION
(1) Miriam Ruth Jones, born at Chicago,
Illinois, April 29, 1925.
(2) Marjorie Jones, born at Chicago, March
8, 1927.
(3) D. Richard Jones, born at Chicago,
December 13, 1931.
(4) Nancy Jones, born at Quito, S. A., May,
1934.
FIFTH GENERATION
Tobias Steiner Family Continued
Mary Steiner, born June 29, 1873, was mar-
ried to C. U. Widmer at Bluffton, Ohio, on
November 10, 1891 by Rev. John Moser, Men-
nonite Church. Address, Upland, California.
Mr. Widmer was born in Switzerland, July 24,
1866.
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Nelson Widmer, born February 1, 1895, at
Lima. Ohio, was married to Marguerite
Jeanerete in 1926, at New York City by City
Hall Justice. Address, Lebanon, Kentucky,
210 Proctor Knott Ave. S. Marguerite Jean-
erete was born in Sonvilier, Switzerland,
September 7, 1895. Presbyterian. Two chil-
dren:
51
0119392
SEVENTH GENERATION
(1) Marie Louise Widmer, born July 1, 1929,
Lebanon, Ky.
(2) Nelson David, Jr., born November 6,
1934, Lebanon, Ky.
SIXTH GENERATION CONTINUED
2) Paul E. Widmer, born September 12, 1897
at Lima, Ohio. Mennonite. Now at Los
Angeles, California.
3) Lillian A. Widmer, born at Niagara Falls,
N. Y., March 31, 1902. She is a Mennonite.
Address, East Orange, N. J.
4) Rhoda J. Widmer, born at Niagara Falls,
N. Y., April 29, 1905. Mennonite. Address,
Bakersfield. California.
5) Eunice Widmer, born at Upland, California,
May 28, 1916.
FIFTH GENERATION
Tobias Steiner Family Continued
Anna Steiner, born July 11, 1876 near Bluff-
ton, Ohio, was married to Noah Herr in 1893
by Rev. John Moser, Mennonite Church, near
Bluffton, Ohio. Noah left his wife and three
children in 1907 to battle their own life and
he resides at Mexico City, Mexico. Anna mar-
ried her second husband John W. Mohr in
1913 at Niagara Falls, N. Y. They lived at Up-
land, California, where he died in 1922 and
Anna died in the year 1923 at Pasadena, Cali-
fornia. Three children were born of the first
marriage.
52
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Oliver Ray Herr, Berkeley, California, 2931
Pine Ave., born near Bluffton, Ohio, Octo-
ber 12, 1896, married to Lois Fox in 1927.
They have three children:
SEVENTH GENERATION
(1) Lois Gertrude Herr, born 1929.
(2) Anna Louise Herr, born 1931.
(3) John Everet Herr, born 1933.
SIXTH GENERATION CONTINUED
2) Ralph Gilbert Herr, San Marine, California,
1862 Alpine Dr., born on March 27, 1900 near
Bluffton, Ohio, married to Mable Frank in
1927. Presbyterians. Three children came
into this union:
SEVENTH GENERATION
(1) Ralph Gilbert Herr, Jr., born in 1929.
(2) Florence Lucella Herr, born in 1931.
(3) Oliver Frank Herr, born in 1932.
SIXTH GENERATION CONTINUED
3) Marvel Lucile Herr, Pasadena, California,
1446 Oakdale Ave., was born June 11, 1902
near Bluffton, Ohio, and married to Clyde
Dunlap, (widower with three children),
September 8, 1934 at Pasadena, California,
by Dr. Blue. They are Presbyterians.
FIFTH GENERATION
Tobias Steiner Family Continued
5. Katharine Steiner, born March 29, 1877, un-
married, deceased.
53
Abraham Steiner, Gold Beach, Oregon, was
born April 14, 1879. He was married to Eliza-
beth January, 1905, by Catholic Priest
at Spokane, Washington. Elizabeth, born in
Germany. August 31, 1879. Six children were
born to this union.
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Edward C. Steiner, Bridgeport, Connecticut,
202 Washington Avenue, born November 3,
1905, at Spokane, Washington. He is a
Mechanical Engineer and has followed this
profession since his graduation from Chaf-
fey College, Ontario, California. Edward, a
Presbyterian, was married to Martha J.
Yager, born in El Paso, Texas, January 2,
1912, a Lutheran, on June 15, 1930 at the
Lutheran Church. Two children blessed
their home.
SEVENTH GENERATION
(1) Barbara Jean Steiner, born July 25,
1931, El Paso, Texas.
(2) Shirley Anne Steiner, born March 25,
1935, Bridgeport, Connecticut.
2) Lee Steiner, born November 7, 1907, died
at the age of 3V2 years.
3) Frederick A. Steiner, born August 16, 1909,
Cleveland, Ohio, 1866 E. 20 St.
4) Julius C. Steiner, born August 19, 1911, Gold
Beach, Oregon.
5) Mary E. Steiner, born August 20, 1913, Oak-
land, California, 422 41 St.
6) George A. Steiner, born June 5, 1916, Gold
54
Beach, Oregon. George was born at Plains,
Montana, all other children were born at
Spokane, Washington.
FIFTH GENERATION
Tobias Steiner Family Continued
7. Susan Steiner, born at Bluffton, Ohio, February
25, 1883, married to C. F. Diemer. Children:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Julian Diemer, born June 23, 1902, married
July 3, 1931.
2) Josephine Diemer, married to Richard Mat-
ter, 822 W. State St., Fort Wayne, Indiana.
3) Grover Diemer, married Carrie Gump, 4008
Park Hill, Fort Wayne, Indiana.
Susan was married to Will Diller after
Diemer's death, and thirdly to Frank Stal-
ter. No children from either.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
8. Grover Steiner, born October 10, 1885, Bluff-
ton, Ohio. Address, Riverside, California. He
was married to Hazel Hoover by Dr. A. W. At-
kinson, December 25, 1910, at Riverside, Cali-
fornia. Hazel was born May 4, 1889 at Dayton,
Ohio. The entire family are Methodists. Two
children:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Hoover Steiner, born July 17, 1918. River-
side, California.
2) Burdette Steiner, born March 11, 1923.
55
FIFTH GENERATION
Tobias Steiner Family Concluded
9. Monroe Steiner, born May 1, 1887, deceased,
was married to Studler, Fort Wayne,
Indiana.
10. Louise Steiner, born married
to Adolph Studler, 1903, Fort Wayne, Indiana,
2115 Wells St. Three children:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Laurette Studler, born Fort
Wayne, Indiana, 2115 Wells St.
2) Evelyn Studler, born mar-
ried to Carl Riedel June 29, 1925.
3) Francis Studler, born
FOURTH GENERATION
Christian Steiner Descendants Continued
Daniel Steiner Family
III. Daniel Steiner, second son and third child of
Christian and Katharine (Hofstetter) Steiner,
was born December 22, 1850 near Bluffton, Ohio,
and married to Sarah Kohli, March 1872 at Bluff-
ton, Ohio, by Rev. Abraham Schneck of the Re-
formed Church. The family address is Findlay,
Ohio. Six children were born to them:
FIFTH GENERATION
1. Minnie Steiner, born July 26, 1873, died No-
vember 9, 1929. She was married to Lee Ar-
nold of Findlay, Ohio, and belonged to the
Disciple Church. Three children came into
their family:
56
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Earl Sonnet was born October 12, 1896.
He was married to Bernice M. Bish, Feb-
ruary 14, 1920 at Findlay, Ohio, by Rev.
LeRoy DeHayes. The following are their
children:
SEVENTH GENERATION
(1) Roselyn M. Arnold, Findlay, Ohio, was
born June 14, 1922.
(2) Orrville E. Arnold, born August 3, 1924.
(3) James L. Arnold, born Feb. 5, 1928.
(4) Robert L. Arnold, born Nov. 17, 1934.
SIXTH GENERATION CONTINUED
2) Orrville L. Arnold, Findlay, Ohio, born
July 22, 1898, died November 1, 1909.
3) Flora R. Arnold was born November 9.
1900 and married at Monroe, Michigan, to
George A. Carter of Daley City, California,
by Rev. Knowles, June 14, 1917. Four chil-
dren increased their family:
SEVENTH GENERATION
(1) Arthur Lee Carter, born at New Wash-
ington, Calif., December 6, 1919.
(2) Lawrence C. Carter, born at Chicago,
Illinois, August 23, 1925.
(3) Madaline J. Carter, born at Chicago,
Illinois, April 6, 1927.
(4) Arline Mae Carter, born at Cleveland,
Ohio, February 1, 1930.
57
FIFTH GENERATION
Daniel Steiner Family Continued
2. Francis Steiner was born at Bluffton, Ohio,
January 29, 1875, and died March 22, 1903. He
was married to Lydia Schifferly of Bluffton,
Ohio, February 6, 1896, by Rev. F. M. Engle-
man. She was born June 28, 1876. They be-
longed to the Reformed Church. They were
farmers. Three children born to them were:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Luella Mae Steiner was born June 22, 1896.
She was married to Walter M. Hochstet-
ler, September 6, 1917. They live at Elida,
Ohio, and belong to the Reformed Church.
Walter was born December 31, 1895. They
have had six children, two of whom died
in infancy. Those living are:
SEVENTH GENERATION
(1) Robert James Hochstetler, born March
3, 1918.
(2) died in infancy.
(3) Francis Laverne Hochstetler, born at
Beaver Dam, Ohio, May 17, 1920.
(4) Esther Marcyle Hochstetler, born No-
vember 12, 1923.
(5) Treva May Hochstetler, born Decem-
ber 15, 1925.
(6) Harold Hochstetler, born April 29,
1931, died March 28, 1935.
SIXTH GENERATION CONTINUED
2) Carrie Edith Steiner, Bluffton, Ohio, was
58
born at Findlay, Ohio, December 17, 1898.
She was married to John R. Stettler, Bluff-
ton, Ohio, by their pastor, Rev. Lahr of
the Reformed Church. Stettler was born
September 22, 1892. He operates a filling
station. Four children joined their family:
SEVENTH GENERATION
(1) Harriet Lenore Stettler, born at Beaver
Dam, Ohio. June 26, 1918. She mar-
ried Wayne Lugibihl, Bluffton, Ohio.
(2) Allen Theodore Stettler, born at Bluff-
ton, Ohio, November 15, 1920.
(3) John Richard Stettler, born February
17, 1923.
(4) Miriam Coleen Stettler, born Novem-
ber 13, 1937.
SIXTH GENERATION CONTINUED
3) Francis Samuel Steiner, Fort Wayne, In-
diana, 1821 Hale Ave., born at Bluffton,
Ohio, October 11, 1903, Reformed. He was
married to Lillian Balmer, Bluffton, Ohio,
February 25, 1928, by Rev. Weldon Klopf-
enstine, Fort Wayne, Indiana. Lillian is
affiliated with the Ebenezer Mennonite
Church at Bluffton, Ohio. She was born
December 20, 1908. Two children were
born to them:
SEVENTH GENERATION
(1) Francis Samuel Steiner, Jr. born July
31, 1930, at Lutheran Hospital.
(2) Gloria Carol Steiner, born February
10, 1936.
59
FIFTH GENERATION
Daniel Steiner Family Continued
3. Kort Steiner, born June, 1876, died in 1903.
He was married twice, once to Lizzie Miskie.
There were no children.
4. Nettie Steiner, born and
died September 1, 1915. She was married to
Dr. J. L. Davis, Unionville, Ohio.
5. Evaline Steiner. born December 27, 1887, was
married to Robert M. Beltz at Findlay, Ohio,
October 30, 1897, by Rev. Havinghort. Robert
was born July 21, 1871. Address, Findlay,
Ohio, 1321 S. Blanchard. Evaline died in 1936.
Three children were born to them:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Fred A. Beltz, born August 22, 1898, was
married to Elsie Stohon, Toledo, Ohio, De-
cember 16, 1922 by Rev. A. M. Doyle, De-
troit, Michigan. Elsie, born July 27, 1899.
Catholic. Mr. Beltz's occupation is time
keeper. Address, Toledo, Ohio, 3825 Bal-
timore St. Children born are:
SEVENTH GENERATION
(1) Robert Beltz. Toledo, Ohio, born Sep-
tember 9, 1925.
(2) Thelma Beltz, born March 29, 1928.
(3) Patricia Ann Beltz, born Feb. 4, 1933.
SIXTH GENERATION CONTINUED
2) Marguerite Beltz, Toledo, Ohio, 640 Ely-
sian Ave., born July 29, 1904. at Findlay,
60
Ohio, was married to Vern Perney, Toledo,
Ohio, November 23, 1923, by Rev. R. D.
Lehman, Toledo, Ohio. Vern was born
September 9, 1900, his occupation is plas-
terer. Five children were born to them:
SEVENTH GENERATION
(1) Harold V. Perney, born March 30, 1925.
(2) Marie L. Perney, born May 12, 1926.
(3) Bettie Lou Perney, born Sept. 6, 1930.
(4) Donald Delphin Perney, born February
1, 1932.
(5) Vernard Perney, born July 25, 1934.
SIXTH GENERATION CONTINUED
3) Bonnie May Beltz, born at Toledo, Ohio,
April 29, 1919.
FIFTH GENERATION
Daniel Steiner Family Continued
Dora Steiner was born December 14, 1891, and
married to Robert Corvin, April 2, 1919, at
Sacramento, California, by Rev. G. F. Brad-
ford. Four children were born:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Robert Earl Corvin born at Arbaga, Cali-
fornia, February 29, 1920. Present Address,
Marysville, California.
2) Verna Marjorie Corvin, born August 26,
1921.
3) Colleen June Corvin)
4) Edwin Henry Corvin) twins born June 5,
1926.
61
FOURTH GENERATION
Christian Steiner Descendants Continued
IV. Barbara Steiner, fourth child of Christian and
Katharine (Hofstetter) Steiner, is unaccounted
for as to dates of birth and death. She was nev-
er married.
Moses Steiner Family
V. Moses Steiner, fifth child of Christian and Kath-
arina (Hofstetter) Steiner, was born at Bluffton,
Ohio, July 4, 1860. He was married, first, to
Caroline Amstutz of Bluffton, Ohio, who died in
1898, aged 33 years. No children reported from
this wedlock. Moses was married a second time
to Fianna Althaus, February 5, 1900. Out of this
union four children issued. (See below) Mr.
Steiner and his family are identified with the
Mennonite Church, first in the settlement under
the pastorage of Rev. John Moser, and since the
organization of the First Mennonite Church at
Bluffton there. The family lives in Bluffton, Ohio,
where Mr. Steiner is a coal dealer.
FIFTH GENERATION
1. Naomi Steiner, born February 9, 1901, is a
graduate of Bluffton College and an active
member of the First Mennonite Church. Mar-
ried to Clarence Hause. One child:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Carolyn Miriam, born August 1, 1936.
62
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
2. Clorinda Steiner, second daughter of Moses
and Fianna Steiner, was born June 19, 1902.
She is a member of the Church of her parents,
and was married to Herbert Luginbuhl by her
SIXTH GENERATION
pastor, Rev. S. M. Musselmann, August 15, 1926.
One child has been born to them.
FIFTH GENERATION
1) Ray L. Luginbuhl, born August 20, 1927.
Moses Steiner Family Concluded
3. Wilbur Steiner, Pandora, Ohio, born Septem-
ber 14, 1908, was married to Cledas Basinger,
July 29, 1933 by Rev. Mumma, Newport, Ky.
They are Mennonites. Cledas, born Feb. 28,
1913, Pandora, Ohio.
4. Marcella Steiner, Bluffton, Ohio, was born
March 6, 1914. She is a student at Bluffton
College.
THIRD GENERATION
SECTION II BRANCH A
Barbara (Gerber) and Peter Hofstetter
Descendants Continued
Magdalena Hofstetter-Gerber
Magdalena, second daughter of Barbara Gerber
Hofstetter, was born August 31, 1827 and married
Abraham Gerber, son of Ulrich and Barbara (Falb)
Gerber, who was born December 21, 1834. The mar-
63
riage rite was performed by the couple's pastor,
Bishop Ulrich Sommer, December 25, 1855 at the
Sonnenberg Church. They settled on the farm now-
occupied by Levi Steiner, and a number of years
later moved to Kansas. The union in wedlock was
blessed with the advent of nine children: Judith,
Sarah, Joseph, Rebecca, Benjamin, Salome, Lena,
Tobias, Leah. Mother Gerber died January 28, 1901,
at the age of 73 years. Father Gerber died —
FOURTH GENERATION
Abraham and Magdalena Gerber Family
I. Judith Gerber was the first daughter of Abra-
ham and Magdalena Gerber. She was born in
the settlement October 16, 1856 and died an
infant.
II. Sarah B. Gerber was born March 23, 1858 and
was married as second wife to Frederick Beyler
. He died August 13, 1913.
III. Joseph was born May 19, 1859; died in childhood
September 27, 1861.
IV. Rebecca Gerber was born December 21, 1860 and
was married as second wife to Edward Chate-
laine. (Mr. Chatelaine's first marriage was to
another descendant of Deacon Gerber and will
be found further). The marriage to Rebecca
took place March 4, 1884 by the couple's pastor,
Rev. Jacob Nusbaum of this place. Rebecca died
March 20, 1934, 16 days after the Chatelaine's
could celebrate their golden wedding. The fam-
ily moved to Harper County, Kansas, first in
1886, and later to Mead County. The following
64
children were born to this union, Emma, Mc-
linda, Lina A., Dina C, Ida B. and Florence C.
FIFTH GENERATION
Ed. Chatelaine Family
1. Emma Chatelaine was born March 3, 1886. At
the age of 22 she was married to James Worth
Eaton, Fowler, Kansas. He was born June 9,
1875 and the marriage took place November 8,
1908 by B. Halberson, Christian Church,
Fowler, Kansas. Occupation, barber. Chil-
dren born to this couple were:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Olian Lee Eaton, Fowler, Kansas, born
July 30, 1909. He is a member of the
Christian Church as most of the Chatelaine
Family. By trade he is a barber. On
August 25, 1935 he was married to Igola
Pflieger, by Rev. Smoot, Dodge City, Kan-
sas.
2) Donald Edward Eaton, Emporia, Kansas,
619 W. 6th St.; was born May 5, 1911. Mar-
ried to Marguerette Mendenhall, Fowler,
Kansas.
3) Reuben Merryman Eaton, Box 82, Hugeton,
Kansas, born June 12, 1913, and married
to Oneida Pflieger, Dodge City, Kansas,
September 24, 1933. He is clerk in a groc-
ery. Oneida was born October 13, 1915,
Dodge City, Kansas. (Disciple)
SEVENTH GENERATION
(1) Ronald Dean Eaton, born July 7, 1936.
65
(2) Connie Lou Eaton, born Aug. 15, 1937.
Sixth Generation (Continued)
4) Denton Dean Eaton, born May 21, 1915;
died July 22, 1932.
5) James Worth Eaton, 619 W. 6th Street, Em-
poria, Kansas, born October 11, 1917. He
goes to school.
6) Rebecca Talitha Eaton, Fowler, Kansas,
born December 20, 1919. High School girl.
Christian Church.
7) Fred Albert Eaton, Fowler, Kansas, born
February 28, 1923, at Zenith, Kansas. Chris-
tian Church.
FIFTH GENERATION
Chatelaine Family Continued
2. Melinda Chatelain, Texarkana, Texas, R. 2,
Box 726, was born mar-
ried to Arthur Schull Laird, December 25,
1915, by J. W. Jones. Mr. Laird is an under-
taker. Two children have been born to them:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Esther Genevieve Laird, born October 23,
1916.
2) Creighton Merritt Laird, born May 19, 1921.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
3. Lina A. Chatelaine, 1003 South Street,
Wichita, Kansas, was born October 23, 1889;
married to Fred Runyan on April 23, 1913, by
J. W. Jones, of Fowler, Kansas. They belong
to the Christian Church and Mr. Runyan, who
66
was born April 31, 1891, at Coin, Iowa, is a
bus driver. They had lived in Colorado, Ar-
kansas, Oklahoma and now in Kansas. Five
children are born to them.
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Selma Irene Runyan, born April 2, 1914;
married Russel A. Tweedy, June 12, 1936,
by R. E. Snodgrass. They live at 1001
South St., Wichita, Kansas.
2) Dorsey Lee Runyan, Bakes, Colorado, born
November 16, 1915.
3) Fred Albert Runyan, Beaty, Arkansas, born
November 20, 1917.
4) Jester Arthur Runyan, Sid, Oklahoma,
born December 2, 1920.
5) Loretta Mae Runyan, Fowler, Kansas, born
May 29, 1924.
FIFTH GENERATION
Chatelaine Family Continued
4. Dina C. Chatelaine, born March 29, 1892, mar-
ried to Riley Schrivner, Dahlgren, Illinois,
August 16, 1911. He was born March 3, 1889.
They are engaged in poultry farming. They
are Baptists. Six children have joined the
family:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Rozin Lee Schrivner, born August 20, 1912.
He is a member of the Baptist Missionary
Church.
2) Alma Leah Schrivner, born May 3, 1905.
Baptist.
67
3) Minnie Ellen Schrivner, born January 1,
1917. Baptist.
4) Gladys Helen Schrivner, born February 24,
1919. Baptist.
5) Edward John Calvin Schrivner, born No-
vember 14, 1924.
6) Reba Mae Schrivner, born Feb. 27, 1927.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
5. Ida B. Chatelaine, born ,
married to Charles Briggs, Hutchison, Kansas,
104 E. 14th Street. They belong to the First
Christian Church. He is a merchant. Three
children were born to them:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Charles Briggs, Jr., born 1916.
2) Clara)
3) Mary) Twins born in 1918; both died in
childhood.
FIFTH GENERATION
Chatelaine Family Concluded
6. Florence C. Chatelaine born ;
address is Minneapolis, Minnesota.
FOURTH GENERATION
Abe and Magdalena Gerber Family Continued
V. Benjamin Gerber, fifth child of Magdalena (Hof-
stetter) and Abraham Gerber, was born May
31, 1862 and married to Mary Schwartz, Novem-
ber 12, 1885 at the Sonnenberg Church by their
pastor, Christian Sommer. Benjamin, who had
accompanied his father to Kansas in his youth,
68
came back to claim his bride and with her went
back to his new home in Harper County, Kansas.
Mrs. Gerber died June 15, 1907 and Mr. Gerber
lived on until 1932, and died at the age of 70
years. They were affiliated with the Mennonite
church at Harper, Kansas. The following chil-
dren were born to them: Sarah, Joseph, Edward.
Lydia, Amanda, Lena.
FIFTH GENERATION
1. Sarah Gerber, born October 10, 1886, died
March 13, 1930 of dropsy. She was never mar-
ried.
2. Joseph Gerber, Harper, Kansas, born Janu-
ary 9, 1888; married Ida Yoder, in 1915 by I.
G. Hartzler, Garden City, Missouri. Ida was
born December 18, 1893, at Garden City, Mo.
They settled in Harper County, Kansas, where
they are engaged in farming. Mennonites.
Eight children are reported from them.
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Eula Gerber, born January 12, 1916, died
December 2, 1927, as a result of an opera-
tion for appendicitis.
2) Clarence Gerber, born March 13, 1918; died
April 11, 1918.
3) Earl Gerber, born December 8, 1920.
4) Lela Gerber, born September 28, 1922.
5) Marion Gerber, born November 28, 1924.
6) Leona Gerber, born February 12, 1927.
7) Emery Gerber, born October 20, 1929.
8) Clayton Gerber, born December 28, 1931.
69
FIFTH GENERATION
Benjamin Gerber Family (Continued)
3. Edward Gerber, Harper, Kansas, was born
April 12, 1889, and married Bertha Plank
(born March 28, 1885) June 20, 1917, by R.
W. Weaver, Harper, Kansas. They are Men-
nonites and engaged in farming. Two chil-
dren bring sunshine into their home, viz:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Orva Gerber, born May 2, 1920.
2) Loren Gerber, born April 29, 1923.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
4. Lydia Gerber, Harper, Kansas, was born May
29, 1890 and married as second wife to Rev. R.
M. Weaver, a minister of an American Men-
nonite Church, June 5, 1927, at Hutchinson,
Kansas, by Bishop H. A. Diener. He is also
a farmer. Two children were born to them
to date:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Mary Idell Weaver, born December 4, 1928.
2) Wanda Lou Weaver, born June 17, 1932.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
5. Amanda Gerber, born October 24, 1891 is
single and engaged in laundry work. She is
a member of the Mennonite Church.
6. Lena Gerber, born December 20, 1894 is single,
Mennonite, and engaged in laundry work.
70
FOURTH GENERATION
Abe Gerber Family Continued
VI. Salome Gerber, daughter of Magdalena and
Abraham Gerber, was born December 17, 1863.
She married Frederick Beyler in 1888 by Rev.
Miller, at Harper, Kansas, as first wife. Three
children were born to this issue: Leah, Christian,
Alfred. Salome died May 31, 1897. Later he
was married to a second wife, Sarah B. Gerber,
sister to his first wife. No children were born
to them.
FIFTH GENERATION
1. Leah Beyler, born September 1, 1890. She
was married to Oliver H. Hostetler, (born
August 8, 1889) March 20, 1913, by Rev. R. M.
Weaver, Harper, Kansas, their pastor, where
they are members of the Mennonite Church.
Mr. Hostetler is a farmer and mail carrier.
They live in Harper County, Kansas, on the
old homestead of Abraham Gerber. Seven
children grace their home life.
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Mildred Hostetler, born January 4, 1914.
She is a teacher in High School, Roxbury,
Kansas.
2) Elda Hostetler, born January 28, 1916.
Teacher in Home Economics.
3) Edna Hostetler, born June 9, 1918. Stu-
dent at Bethel College.
4) Clarence Hostetler, born May 25, 1920.
Student in High School.
71
5) Avis Hostetler, born December 31, 1922.
6) Opal Hostetler, born February 20, 1928.
7) Donavon Hostetler, born January 18, 1932.
FIFTH GENERATION
Fred Beyler Family Continued
2. Christian Beyler, Protection, Kansas, son of
Frederick Beyler, was born October 3, 1892
at Harper. Kansas. He is a Mennonite and
farmer. He was first married to Elsie Hostet-
ler in March 12, 1914, to which union three
children were born, (Elsie died February 20,
1920) then to Clara Baker, who bore him two
children:
SIXTH GENERATION
A. Children of Elsie (Hostetler) Beyler.
1) Velma Beyler, born January 4, 1915. Men-
nonite, Registered nurse in the Harper vi-
cinity.
2) Victor Beyler, born March 10, 1917. Men-
nonite, Denver, Colorado.
3) Clayton Beyler, born May 21, 1918. Men-
nonite. Student at Hesston, Kansas.
B. Children of Clara (Baker) Beyler, second
wife, born June 28, 1900. Married April 5,
1925, by D. D. Miller, Protection, Kansas.
1) Alta Beyler, born June 1, 1927.
2) Vera Beyler, born December 17, 1929.
FIFTH GENERATION
Beyler Family Concluded
3. Alfred Beyler, Harper, Kansas, son of Freder-
72
ick Beyler, born January 26, 1895, married
Grace Hershberger, February 2, 1916, by Rev.
J. P. Berkey. They are Methodists and farm-
ers. Four children were born to them as
follows:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Clifford Duane Beyler, born November 5,
1917. Student at the Manhattan State
College.
2) Mable Mae Beyler, born April 21, 1919.
3) Mary June Beyler, born June 15, 1924.
4) Evelyn Lorene Beyler, born Feb. 17, 1926.
FOURTH GENERATION
Abraham Gerber Family Continued
VII. Lena Gerber, daughter of Magdalena and Abra-
ham Gerber, was born September 10, 1866. She
was married to Ferdinand Balmer of Harper,
Kansas, March 26, 1893 by Rev. S. C. Miller,
Harper, Kansas. Mrs. Balmer died September
6, 1934. Mr. Balmer is still living. He was
born December 13, 1865, in Switzerland. They
are Mennonites. Six children have en-
lightened their home: Levina, Lillie, Delia, Des-
sie, Ruth, Rena:
FIFTH GENERATION
1. Levina Balmer, Wichita, Kansas, born Sep-
tember 6, 1894, near Harper, Kansas, was
married to Amandus Hartzler, of Wichita,
Kansas, in June 1924 by J. Shenk, at Port-
land, Oregon. Mr. Hartzler, was born June
73
14, 1889, and is a truck farmer. They are
Mennonites. Three children grace their
home, namely:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Marvin Hartzler, born February 7, 1927,
Wichita, Kansas.
2) Sanford Hartzler, born January 17, 1930,
Wichita, Kansas.
3) Orpha Jeanne Hartzler, born November 5,
1935, Wichita, Kansas.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
Lillie Balmer, born August 30, 1895, was mar-
ried to John Rupp, (born December 9, 1888,
at Freeman, S. Dak.) of Hesston, Kansas,
April 24, 1918, by R. W. Weaver. Harper,
Kansas. They are Mennonites and farmers.
Five children came to this home, viz:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Willard Rupp, Hesston, Kansas, born May
29, 1923, at Newton, Kansas. Mennonite.
2) Milford Rupp, Hesston, Kansas, born July
3, 1925, at Hesston, Kansas. Mennonite.
3) Ruth Rupp, born March 18, 1928.
4) Elda Rupp, born December 8, 1929.
5) Delbert Rupp, born July 17, 1934.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
Delia Balmer, Harper, Kansas, was born Jan-
uary 8, 1898 and married to Ura Hostetler
(born January 28, 1898 at McPherson, Kan-
sas,) in 1917 at Harper, Kansas, by R. M.
74
Weaver. He is a farmer and they are both
loyal Mennonites. Five children have come
to this home, viz:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) William Lester Hostetler, born February
2, 1921. Mennonite.
2) Thelma D. Hostetler, born Dec. 1, 1922.
3) Albert B. Hostetler, born October 7, 1924.
4) Dewey Lee Hostetler, born Oct. 24, 1927.
5) Rosalea Phyllia Hostetler, born Nov. 21,
1936.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
4. Dessie Balmer, LaJunta, Colorado, was born
April 21, 1899 and was married to Henry
Hedrick, on February 18, 1923, by Rev. H.
J. King, Harper, Kansas (born December 28,
1899 at LaJunta, Colorado). They adhere to
the Mennonite Church. Mr. Hedrick is
a farmer. They have ten children as follows:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Dorothy Hedrick, born May 10, 1924.
2) Howard Hedrick, born August 8, 1926;
died 1928.
3) Melvin Hedrick, born July 13, 1927.
4) Harrold Hedrick, born July 20, 1928.
5) Clifford Hedrick, born Sept. 21, 1929.
6) Marjorie Hedrick, born June 16, 1932.
7) Lloyd) born, November 7, 1933.
8) Floyd) twins, born, November 7, 1933.
Died April 24, 1934.
75
9) Donald Hedrick, born February 20, 1935.
10) Rosetta Hedrick, born December 1, 1936.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
5. Ruth Balmer, born June 18, 1902, married
to Amra Hostetler, (born September 19, 1899)
Harper, Kansas, May 23, 1925 by R. M. Weav-
er. They are members of the Mennonite Con-
gregation, at that place. They have five chil-
dren:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Dorothy Sunshine Hostetler, born Sep-
tember 22, 1926, Harper, Kansas.
2) Helen M. Hostetler, born Feb. 13, 1929.
3) Delbert C. Hostetler. born Oct. 26, 1933.
4) Betty Ruth Hostetler, born Jan. 13, 1935.
5) Rosella Gale Hostetler, born Nov. 16, 1936.
FIFTH GENERATION
Balmer Family Concluded
6. Rena Balmer, born April 16, 1906, is still
single. Mennonite. Was a school teacher for
several years.
FOURTH GENERATION
Abraham Gerber Family Concluded
VIII. Tobias Gerber, was the youngest son of Abra-
ham and Magdalena Gerber. He was born
June 17, 1869 and died January 28, 1872 of
pneumonia.
IX. Leah Gerber, was the last child of Abraham
and Magdalena Gerber. She was born March
9, 1871 and died June 6, 1925, aged 54 years,
76
2 months and 27 days. She was married to
Henry Hinkel, Palymra, Missouri. Six chil-
dren were born to this union: Amos, Mattie,
Anna, Lydia, Elmer, Olive.
FIFTH GENERATION
1. Amos Hinkel, born June 27, 1899. married
to Edna Smith, Kansas City, Kansas, May 30,
1920. Belong to Church of God. No chil-
dren.
2. Mattie Hinkel, born September 14, 1902,
was married to John F. Kreider, Palmyra,
Missouri, September 17, 1922 by Rev. D. H.
Bender. He is a farmer; Mennonites. Seven
children were born into this family, namely:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Harold Glenn Kreider, born May 3, 1924.
Mennonite.
2) Verna Grace Kreider, born May 13, 1925.
Mennonite.
3) Miriam Elvina Kreider, born Nov. 6, 1926.
Mennonite.
4) John Tillman Kreider, born April 23, 1928.
Mennonite.
5) Kathryn Louise Kreider, born May 31,
1931.
6) Anna Margaret Kreider, born June 27,
1933.
7) Paul Nelson Kreider, born Jan. 7, 1936.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
3. Anna Marie Hinkel, born October 10, 1904;
died January 30, 1905.
77
4. Lydia Hinkel, 523 S. Walnut, Newton, Kan-
sas, born April 23, 1907, at Harper, Kansas.
She was married to Claude R. Zinn August
16, 1924, at Newton, Kansas, by Rev. W. J.
Shull. Claude was born July 12, 1901 at
Halls Summit, Kansas, and is a Fireman on
the Sante Fe Railroad. He is a member of
the Methodist Church and Mrs. Zinn is a
Baptist. The following children were born
to them:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Richard R. Zinn, born March 1, 1925.
2) Marjorie W. Zinn, born November 3, 1926.
3) Nadine E. Zinn, born December 26, 1927.
4) Keith R. Zinn, born May 4, 1930.
5) Monte Ray Zinn, born March 27, 1936.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
5. Elmer Glenn Hinkel, born July 6, 1908, is
single.
6. Olive Salome Hinkel, born February 4, 1912,
is single. She belongs to Quaker Church; is
studying for foreign Mission.
THIRD GENERATION
SECTION III BRANCH A
Barbara Gerber-Hofstetter Descendants
Continued
Christian Hofstetter was the first son (third child)
of Barbara (Gerber) and Peter Hofstetter. He was
born on Sonnenberg June 14, 1829; baptized and
78
admitted as member of the Sonnenberg Mennonite
Church, April 10, 1846, by Bishop Peter Schneck.
Christian was married January 17, 1880 to Anna
Boegli (born October 3, 1861), a native of Switzer-
land, by Bishop Christian Sommer. Emigrated to
Ohio 1874. Christian died June 7, 1889, leaving his
wife with three children (see below). The widow
later went to Oregon in 1900, where she married
John Beer in 1902. John died in 1928 and Anna
died May 5, 1937.
FOURTH GENERATION
Chris Hofstetter Family
I. Verena Hofstetter, oldest daughter of Christian
Hofstetter, was born November 27, 1880 on the
farm now occupied by Dan B. Amstutz. She
remained single. Her address is Pine St., Silver-
ton, Oregon.
II. Benjamin, oldest son of Christian Hofstetter, was
born August 9, 1882. His last reported address
was 1925 East St., Vancouver, Washington. He
married Ethel Darby. They have two children.
FIFTH GENERATION
1. Roy Hofstetter, born August 28, 1912.
2. Lois Hofstetter, born January 21, 1919.
FOURTH GENERATION CONTINUED
III. Christian C. Hofstetter, Silverton, Oregon,
youngest son of Christian Hofstetter, Sr., was
born on Sonnenberg, Ohio, January 25, 1885. He
went to Oregon as a young boy (with his mother)
and on December 18, 1926 was married to Mary
Susan Roth of Woodburn, Oregon, by Bishop
79
A. P. Troyer. She was born December 2, 1900.
They are members of the Zion Mennonite Church
at Silverton, Oregon. Four children have graced
their family.
FIFTH GENERATION
1. Donald Christian Hofstetter, born October 4,
1927.
2. Ralph David Hofstetter, born June 29, 1929.
3. Catharine Mary Hofstetter, born September,
24, 1930.
4. Harold Wilson Hofstetter, born February 6,
1933.
5. Merlin Ivan Hofstetter, born January 16, 1937.
THIRD GENERATION
SECTION IV. BRANCH A
Barbara Gerber-Hofstetter Descendants
Continued
John P. Hofstetter, second son of Barbara (Gerber)
and Peter Hofstetter, was born February 20, 1835 on
the pioneer farm of his father, south of Dalton, Ohio.
He was married to Catharine, daughter of Peter
Moser, May 1, 1856 who had grown to womanhood
on the parental farm still owned by her brother,
David P. Moser, and operated by her nephew, Calvin
Moser, south of Dalton. She was born February 9,
1838. The couple was married by their pastor. Chris-
tian Sommer, of the Sonnenberg Church. They con-
tinued to live on the farm of the groom's parents
all their lives, where Mother Hofstetter died pre-
80
maturely of apoplexy on August 11, 1877, aged 39
years, 4 months and 2 days. Her widowed hus-
band continued his pilgrimage until February 14,
1907, when he died of dropsy, aged 72 years less six
days. The following flock of children blessed their
married life:
FOURTH GENERATION
Family of John P. Hofstetter
I. Leah Hofstetter was born near Dalton, Ohio,
February 25, 1857. She was married to John
Zuercher March 6, 1879 by Rev. Christian Som-
mer. John I. Zuercher, whose mother died when
he was three years old, son of Isaac Zuercher,
deceased, Berne, Indiana, with whom he emi-
grated to this country from Corgemontberg,
a section of the Sonnenberg settlement in Switz-
erland, where he was born November 8, 1856.
The couple lived together on a farm directly south
of the Peter Moser homestead until death parted
them. Mrs. Zuercher died Januery 12, 1910, aged
43 years. John died July 26, 1936. Children born
to their union were: Sarah, Fannie, Mary and
Amos.
FIFTH GENERATION
1. Sarah Zuercher, Dalton, Ohio, was born June
1, 1882. She was married to Joshua Gerber,
December 12, 1905 and the couple settled
on a farm on U. S. Highway 30, west of
Dalton, where they still live. The marriage
was performed by Rev. Jacob Nussbaum of
the Sonnenberg Church. Seven children were
born to them, as follows:
81
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Ellen Gerber, born May 14, 1906 and died
September 2, 1906.
2) Sylvia Gerber. born December 12, 1907. She
is at home, engaged in housework. Member
of the Mennonite Church.
3) Milton Gerber, born July 17, 1909, is an ef-
ficient day laborer, and member of the Men-
nonite Church.
4) Alta Gerber, born December 22, 1910, is an
efficient domestic worker and member of
the same church.
5) Lillian Gerber, born November 1, 1912, died
September 25, 1914.
6) Wilson Gerber, born January 3, 1917, died
March 1, 1917.
7) Dennis Gerber, born February 23, 1920, lost
his life coming home from school, hit by a
car on Highway 30, May 2, 1930.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
Amos B. Amstutz Family
Fannie Zuercher was born January 21, 1885,
and married to Amos B. Amstutz in "Benville"
south of Dalton, R. 1, February 6, 1904, by Rev.
J. T. Hoak of Dalton. Amos was born Decem-
ber 20, 1884. In his earlier career he followed
his father's trade as an efficient cheese maker,
but later took up truck farming which he still
follows successfully. Fannie is an active mem-
ber and worker for the Mennonite Sewing
Circle, since a number of years. They are all
82
members of the Mennonite Church. The cou-
ple has been blessed with eight children:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Urban Amstutz, born July 8, 1904 and died
as a result of an accident, February 21, 1909.
2) Velma Catharine Amstutz, Apple Creek,
Ohio, R. 1, born June 22, 1907 and married
to Amos D. Amstutz, son of David Amstutz,
(deceased) August 21, 1930 by Rev. C. N.
Amstutz of the Sonnenberg Church. Amos
was born February 14, 1908. Mr. Amstutz
is farming his uncle Aaron Amstutz's farm
on R. 1, Apple Creek, Ohio. This union
has been blessed with two children:
SEVENTH GENERATION
(1) Anna Jean Amstutz, born February 22,
1932.
(2) Evelyn Jane Amstutz, born June 7, 1933.
SIXTH GENERATION CONTINUED
3) Benjamin A. Amstutz, Dalton, Ohio, was
born January 12, 1910 and married Irene
Sommer, born October 28, 1908, daughter of
Mrs. Jacob P. Sommer, Kidron, Ohio, June
28, 1931, by Bishop C. N. Amstutz. They
are members of the Mennonite Church. Born
to this union were:
SEVENTH GENERATION
(1) Doris Irene Amstutz, born February 28,
1933.
(2) Shirley Ann Amstutz, born August 20,
1935.
83
(3) Kenneth Lee Amstutz, born March 18,
1937.
SIXTH GENERATION CONTINUED
4) Evan C. Amstutz, was born March 24, 1911.
He is teaching school near Dalton, Ohio.
Member of the parents' Church.
5) Evelyn R. Amstutz was born August 15,
1912. She was married to Harvey Nuss-
baum on June 2, 1935 by Rev. Louis Am-
stutz. Mr. Nussbaum is operating as miller
at Mt. Eaton, Ohio. Both are members of
the Mennonite Church. Have one child:
SEVENTH GENERATION
(1) Howard James Nussbaum, born May
24, 1936, Mt. Eaton, Ohio. .
SIXTH GENERATION CONTINUED
6) Sylvia G. Amstutz, Apple Creek, Ohio, was
born July 8, 1915. On August 1, 1935, she
was married to Victor Amstutz by the
groom's father, Rev. Louis Amstutz. Men-
nonites.
7) Mildred I. Amstutz, was born May 29, 1919.
At Home. Mennonite.
8) Edith M. Amstutz, was born February 18,
1927.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
3. Mary Zuercher, third daughter of John and
Leah (Hofstetter) Zuercher. was born Septem-
ber 27, 1887, near Dalton, Ohio. She went to
Oregon in her young womanhood where she
84
was married, June 13, 1914, to Edwin Neuen-
schwander, Lebanon, Oregon, R. 2, where they
are farming. The marriage was performed
by their pastor, Rev. C. R. Gerig, of the Men-
nonite Church there. They are Mennonites.
Five children were born to them:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Paul Wilburn Neuensch wander, born March
8, 1916. He is farming and is a member of
his parents' church.
2) Vernon Leroy Neuenschwander, born March
2, 1920. At home; a member of the same
church.
3) Lorene Elizabeth Neuenschwander, born
October 22, 1921. Mennonite Church.
4) Ura Edgar Neuenschwander. born January
1, 1923.
5) Velma Arlene Neuenschwander, born March
12, 1924.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
4. Amos Zuercher, Dalton, Ohio, R 1, was born
August 18, 1890 and was married to Anna
Wuetrick, November 9, 1911 by Bishop Jacob
Nussbaum. Mr. Zuercher is a professional en-
gineer, having been engaged as such for many
years, in coal mines, railroad shops, at Orrville,
Ohio, and of late years at Brewster. He and
his family live in their beautiful country home
east of "Benville" where he does some farming
as a sideline. They are affiliated with the
Mennonite Church. Six children grace his
family, as follows:
85
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Vilas W. Zuercher, Apple Creek, Ohio, was
born July 29, 1913, married to Elma Gerber,
by Aaron Mast of Bellville, Pa., June 14,
1936, at Sonnenberg. He is a Veterinarian,
at Apple Creek, Ohio. One child.
SEVENTH GENERATION
(1) Kathryn Marie, born March 4, 1938.
SIXTH GENERATION CONTINUED
2) Idella G. Zuercher, was born December 31,
1914. She is teaching school.
3) Vida L. Zuercher, was born November 25,
1917. She is teaching school.
4) Pauline A. Zuercher was born May 12, 1920.
Student at Dalton High School.
5) Marcella M. Zuercher was born December
11, 1926.
6) Gwendolyn Kay Zuercher was born Octo-
ber 29, 1934.
FOURTH GENERATION
John P. Hofstetter Family Continued
II. Judith Hofstetter was born May 14, 1858. She
lives in Dalton, Ohio. Single.
III. Noah Hofstetter, Berne, Indiana, was born Feb-
ruary 6. 1860. He is a farmer, unmarried. Mem-
ber of the old order Amish.
IV. Aaron Hofstetter, Dalton, Ohio, was born No-
vember 22, 1861. Lives a bachelor's life; engaged
in odd jobs.
V. Daniel Hofstetter, Dalton, Ohio, was born Oc-
86
tober 22, 1863. For many years he kept a sec-
ond-hand household and utensil shop, at Dalton,
Ohio, until his death January 13, 1936. In his
younger years he showed inclinations for inven-
tion. He invented a contraption of a flying ma-
chine, which, upon trial from the barn floor
down onto the manure pile in the barn yard, did
not quite prove successful; however, without any
fatalities.
VI. Peter J. Hofstetter, Compton, California, was
born January 30, 1866, near Dalton, Ohio. He was
married to Catharine S. Curie, Nov. 22, 1889,
by Rev. Jacob Nussbaum. She lived till Decem-
ber 14, 1927, when death took her away from
Peter. Out of that union were born five children
(see below). Peter married a second time to
Maude Johnson, May 19, 1929 by Rev. Mary C.
Vlezek, Los Angeles, California, of the Free
Thinker religion. Maude was born January 8,
1879 at Davis City, Iowa.
FIFTH GENERATION
1. Melvin F. Hofstetter, Hayden, Colorado, was
born October 17, 1889 and was married to
Gladys Blake, (born March 8, 1890) October
10, 1912, by Rev. Aullinger, Hayden, Colo-
rado. The couple belongs to a Congregational
Church. Mr. Hofstetter is post master at
Hayden, Colorado. Besides this he is an elec-
trician. One child blessed their union:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Sibil Hofstetter was born May 8, 1917.
Senior in High School.
87
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
2. Roy P. Hofstetter, Steam Boat Springs, Colo-
rado, was born May 28, 1892; married to Cath-
erine F. Bruce, October 17, 1923. The bride
was born August 13, 1885. They are Congre-
gationalists by church connections. Mr. Hof-
stetter is an expert accountant. One child
blest their union:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Jean Kay Hofstetter, born November 13,
1925.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
3. Zella K. Hofstetter, Compton, California, R. 2,
Box 196, was born May 11, 1894 at Dalton,
Ohio. She was married to Quin E. Starr,
(born August 7, 1892) Emporia, Kansas, Octo-
ber 7, 1913, by Rev. F. E. Cain, Hayden, Colo-
rado. Occupation, machinist. They also are
Congregationalists. Are blessed with two
children:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Maurice E. Starr, born at Hayden, Colo-
rado, January 29, 1917. Compton, Calif.
2) Dorothy B. Starr, born at Hayden, Colo-
rado, January 7, 1920, Compton, California.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
4. Benjamin J. Hofstetter, born March 23, 1896;
by trade, bookkeeper and salesman. He was
killed in the World War, October 8, 1918.
5. Henry A. Hofstetter, 652 So. Vancouver Ave.,
88
Los Angeles, California, was born July 18,
1898 at Dalton, Ohio, and married to Vera M.
Whiteman, September 24, 1919 by Rev. Toot-
acher, at Craig, Colorado. Vera was born
April 9, 1900 at Lexington, Nebraska. They
are Methodists. They have two children.
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Betty Lee Hofstetter, born June 25, 1920,
at Hayden, Colorado.
2) Jack Henry Hofstetter, born July 6, 1922,
at Hayden, Colorado, Their address 652
So. Vancouver, Ave., Los Angeles, Calif.
FOURTH GENERATION
John P. Hofstetter Family Continued
VII. Anna Hofstetter was the seventh child of John
P. and Catharine (Moser) Hofstetter. She was
born July 15, 1868 and died April 23, 1899 of
pneumonia. She was never married and a
faithful member of the Sonnenberg Mennonite
Church.
VIII. Barbara Hofstetter, eighth child of John P.
Hofstetter, was born April 27, 1870. She was
married December 8, 1896 to Solomon J. Am-
stutz by Rev. Jacob Nussbaum. Solomon was
born December 25, 1862, a son of Jonas Am-
stutz, Orrville, Ohio. The family lives near
Orrville, Ohio, on a farm. They were gladden-
ed by the advent of four children; namely:
FIFTH GENERATION
1. Allen Amstutz, Smithville, Ohio, R. D. 1,
was born February 12, 1898. He was mar-
89
ried to Lavina Steiner, August 17, 1927 by
Rev. O. N. Johns of Canton, Ohio. Members
of the Mennonite Church. One child.
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Frances Amstutz, gladdened their union,
May 30, 1928.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
2. Anna Amstutz was born August 4, 1899 and
married to Henry Kornhaus, June 22, 1929
by Rev. David McFadden. Mrs. K. died May
15, 1931. The surviving baby was:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Barbara Ann Kornhaus, born April 22,
1931, died 4 days later.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
3. Celesta Amstutz, born January 6, 1902, was
married on August 15, 1925 to Jay Eberly
by Rev. O. N. Johns. Canton, Ohio. Jay
was born December 14, 1900 near Dalton,
Ohio. Mennonites. They live at Jewett,
Ohio. One son was born to them, died in
infancy.
4. Edna Amstutz, born March 10, 1906; address
LaJunta, Colorado. She is taking nurses'
training.
FOURTH GENERATION
J. P. Hofstetter Family Continued
IX. Fanny Hofstetter, Albany, Oregon, R. 1, was
born the ninth child of John Hofstetter, June
90
12, 1872 and married to Alfred Sommer, Al-
bany, Oregon, November 1, 1905 by Rev. P.
Gerig, Church of God. Mr. Sommer is a farm-
er, son of Gottlieb Sommer. born in Switzer-
land, and his mother was Katherine Biery, born
at Sonnenberg, Ohio. They have three chil-
dren:
FIFTH GENERATION
1. Iva A. Sommer, was born January 24, 1907;
died the same day.
2. Elden F. Sommer was born August 30, 1908.
He is a farm laborer and member of the
Church of God.
3. Ada A. Sommer, born February 1, 1911, is
engaged in housework and member of the
same church.
FOURTH GENERATION
John P. Hofstetter Family Concluded
X. John Hofstetter, located at Trout Creek, Montana,
was born near Dalton the tenth and youngest
child of John P. Hofstetter, and like three of his
brothers, is living in single blessedness.
THIRD GENERATION
SECTION V BRANCH A
Barbara and Peter Hofstetter Descendants
Concluded
Barbara Hofstetter, born April 13, 1831. baptized
April 10, 1846 by Bishop Peter Schneck of the Son-
nenberg church, died March 10, 1892.
91
SECTION VI. BRANCH A
Elizabeth Hofstetter, born (date unknown), was
baptized April 14, 1854, and admitted to the Son-
nenberg Church by Ulrich Sommer. She died (?)
SECOND GENERATION
BRANCH B
Anna (Gerber) Zuercher
Anna Gerber, second daughter of Deacon Michael
Gerber, was born in the ancestral home in Switzer-
land, May 10, 1799, and emigrated with her father
to America at the age of 23 years in 1822. In 1830
she was married to another young immigrant by
the name of Samuel Zuercher. The marriage was
solemnized by Bishop Daniel Steiner, then elder of
the Sonnenberg Mennonite Congregation.
Samuel came over in 1821 with the second con-
tingent of Sonnenberg settlers from the community
of Sonnenberg, Switzerland, where he was born in
1802. He died near Morton, Illinois, May 4, 1865. Sam-
uel was an elder brother to David Zuercher, grandfa-
ther to David and Menno Zuercher, Mrs. N. G. Fank-
hauser, Mrs. Jacob C. Hofstetter and Mrs. Ed. Miller
of this community. These two young men stopped
off at an older Swiss Mennonite settlement in Lan-
caster County, Pennsylvania, and in a year or so later
he came to the Sonnenberg settlement followed by
his younger brother David, where they had to work
and pay for some travelling expenses.
The following five children were born to Anna
and Samuel: Abraham, John, Christ, Jacob and
David.
92
They first lived on the farm adjoining his wife's
father (on the P. M. Gerber homestead) for 24 years,
and in 1854 with the family of five children he moved
to Illinois, then a frontier settlement and settled
about two miles north of Morton, Illinois, in the
midst of what proved to become one of the richest
agricultural sections of the United States, the famous
corn belt of the middle west. Anna died in about
the year 1844. Samuel's second wife was Catherine
Peters.
The trip from Ohio to Illinois was made in true
pioneer style. Samuel packed his belongings with
his second wife and five children of the first wife,
and one child of the second wife, travelled by way
of a canal boat from Massillon, Ohio, to the Ohio
River, then down the Ohio River and up the Mis-
sissippi River as far as St. Louis, and then up on
the Illinois River as far as Peoria, Illinois. This trip
by boat was approximately 1400 miles and took ap-
proximately fifty days.
THIRD GENERATION
SECTION I. BRANCH B
Abraham, oldest son of Samuel and Anna Zuercher,
was born on Sonnenberg, Wayne County, Ohio, in
the year 1831. He died at the age of 20 years.
SECTION II. BRANCH B
John, second son of Samuel and Anna Zuercher,
was born in 1832. He died in young manhood.
SECTION III. BRANCH B
Christian, the third son of Samuel and Anna
93
Zuercher, was born in 1833. He grew up but never
married and lived a bachelor's life. He became a
very inquisitive mental genius and mechanic. His
chief trade was carpentry and contractor, hewing
timber for building barns and houses. In later years
when the saw mill had made it's appearance and
Christ saw the easy operation of the mill, he got
tired of hewing more timber; so he operated the saw
mill for many years. He arrived to the age of 66
years when he died in 1899 near Morton, Illinois.
Jacob Zuercher and His Wife.
THIRD GENERATION
SECTION IV. BRANCH B
Samuel Zuercher Descendants Continued
Jacob Zuercher, fourth son of Samuel and Anna
Zuercher, was born on Sonnenberg, Wayne County,
Ohio, in 1837. He was a youth of 17 years when his
94
father moved to Illinois. At this new domicile he
made acquaintance with a young American lady by
the name of Malinda Jane Davis, whom he married
August 17, 1884. She was many years his junior,
being born in 1865. Jacob was a contractor and
builder and lived to the ripe old age of 87 years, his
death taking place in 1924, and burial near Morton,
Illinois, like his father and brothers. His wife died
in 1922 at the age of 62 years. Their family numbered
four children, as follows:
FOURTH GENERATION
I. Sarah Zuercher, oldest daughter of Jacob Zuerch-
er, was born June 8, 1885, Morton, Illinois, and
married to Harry E. Duke, October 16, 1907 by
Rev. Enos H. Barnes, 304 Niles St., LaPorte, In-
Some of Sam Zuercher's Descendants of Peoria, Illinois.
95
diana. Mr. Duke is an accountant. The couple
belongs to the Catholic Church. Five children
were born to them:
FIFTH GENERATION
1. Harold Duke, oldest son of Mr. and Mrs. Harry
Duke, LaPorte, Indiana ,was born July 31, 1908.
He was married to Miss Ruth Ramsey and the
couple lives at Fort Wayne, Indiana, 2603 Mau-
mee St. Mr. Duke is an accountant, a grad-
uate from Notre Dame University. To them
has been born one son.
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Harold Jr., born May 16, 1932.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
2. Norman E. Duke born May 18, 1911, graduate
Notre Dame University.
3. Mary Helen Duke, born December 20, 1913.
Married to Arthur J. Wantha, September 13,
1937. Address, 306 Harrison St., Laporte, Ind.
Theater manager.
4. Charles Duke, born February 11, 1916. Student.
5. Margaret E. Duke, born January 4, 1923. Grade
school.
FOURTH GENERATION CONTINUED
II. Jacob Zuercher, Jr.. second child of Jacob Zuerch-
er, Sr., was born and married
to Miss Nellie Crocker, 704
7th Ave., Peoria, Illinois. His occupation
Seven children were born to this union as follows:
96
FIFTH GENERATION
1. Harriet Zuercher, 2308 Cumberland, Rockford,
Illinois, was born February 15, 1908 and mar-
ried to Harry Gibson, a salesman. Two chil-
dren were born.
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Jackie Marvin, born August 7, 1934.
2) Donald LeRoy, born October 17, 1936.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
2. Arthur Zuercher, born March 6, 1910. Died.
3. Lillian Zuercher. born May 26, 1912. Saleslady,
and is married to Joe Huber. Address, 221
Margaret St., Peoria, 111.
4. William Zuercher, born September 29, 1913.
Student.
5. Norman Zuercher, born October 25, 1915. Stu-
dent.
6. Dorothy Zuercher, born April 18, 1918.
High School.
7. Marian Zuercher, born August 28. 1920.
Grade School.
FOURTH GENERATION CONTINUED
III. Lydia Zuercher, third child of Jacob Zuercher,
Sr., was born February 7, 1890. Her address is
114 Bradley Avenue, Peoria, Illinois. Unmar-
ried. Christian Profession.
IV. Mary Zuercher, youngest child of Jacob Zuerch-
er, Sr., was born November 18, 1897 and married
July 26, 1931 to John Balzer, 115 Bradley Avenue,
Peoria, Illinois, by Rev. Herbert Barneth, Chris-
97
tian Church, Peoria, Illinois. Mr. Balzer is a
a salesman, dealer in automatic cord stoppers.
Have two children:
FIFTH GENERATION
1. William John Balzer, was born in Oct., 1934.
2. David John Balzer born May 4, 1936.
THIRD GENERATION
SECTION V. BRANCH B
Samuel Zuercher Descendants Continued
David Zuercher, Peoria, Illinois, 713 Morton St.,
youngest son of Samuel and Anna Zuercher, was
born June 26, 1843. As a lad of 11 years he accom-
panied his father to Illinois to make a new home
there. He was married November 5, 1882, to Mary
Herbst by Reverend Michael Zimmerman, their pas-
tor, of the Apostolic (New Mennonite) Church near
Roanoke, 111. She was born July 20, 1857 at Baden,
Germany. David chose blacksmithing as his life
trade. The family live near Morton, Illinois, where
His father had settled in a community of their chosen
cHurch. The following were the children born to
them:
FOURTH GENERATION
I. Anna Zuercher, 713 Morton St., Peoria, Illinois,
was born December 29, 1883. She is working for
the Wood Food Co., at Roanoke, Illinois, like all
her brothers and sisters, member of the Apostolic
(New Mennonite) Church.
II. Mary Zuercher, born July 16, 1885, and married
to George Heinold January 25, 1910. Mr. Heinold
98
was born January 2, 1887, at Morton, Illinois. Ad
dress 1110 N. Monroe St., Peoria, Illinois. Occu-
pation, farmer. This union was given eight chil-
dren as follows:
FIFTH GENERATION
1. Clarence Heinold, born March 5, 1911; died
July 4, 1932.
2. Joseph Heinold, Washburn, Illinois, was born
February 18, 1913 and was married to Frances
Louise Bachman, March 19, 1937 by Rev. Ed-
ward T. Munns. Frances was born May 3,
1914 at Roanoke, Illinois. 1 child, Mary Eliza-
beth, born June 22, 1938.
3. Cora B. Heinold was born March 9, 1915, and
married to Wilbur H. Rogers, April 17, 1938 by
Rev. George C. Ryder, at home. Wilbur was
born September 24, 1913 at Summit St., Kansas
City, Missouri. Their address is 1817 East
Street, Kansas City, Missouri.
4. Laura M. Heinold was born May 11, 1917, mar-
ried to Curtis Steffen of Roanoke, Illinois on
March 12, 1936 by Rev. Robert Lee Logan of
Peoria. Their address is Elpaso, Illinois.
5. Melvin Heinold, born August 24, 1919.
6. Wilbur Heinold, born May 28, 1922.
7. Lester Heinold, born June 23, 1925.
8. Ruth Heinold, born March 7, 1929.
FOURTH GENERATION
David Zuercher Family (Continued)
III. Lydia Zuercher, third daughter of David Zuerch-
er, was born May 14, 1887; and died February
19, 1933. (No further information).
99
IV. Joseph Zuercher, first son of David Zuercher,
was born December 31, 1890. He was married
February 16, 1921 to Amelia Gudeman of Roan-
oke, Illinois, by Rev. Ramond, of Peoria, Illinois.
The family is located near Washington, Illinois,
where Joseph is farming. Christian Apostolic
Faith. Three children came to them:
FIFTH GENERATION
1. Milton Zuercher, born June 4, 1923, Washing-
ton, Illinois.
2. Curtis Zuercher, born September 5, 1924,
Washington, Illinois.
3. Loren Zuercher, born July 6, 1926, Washing-
ton, Illinois.
FOURTH GENERATION
David Zuercher Family Continued
V. Adine Zuercher, born August 22, 1892, and died
December 18, 1913.
VI. Theodore Zuercher, born April 8, 1894. He is
working in a bank. Peoria, Illinois.
VII. Minnie Zuercher, born January 16, 1896. She
is engaged in domestic work; unmarried.
VIII. Cora Zuercher, born February 6, 1898. Do-
mestic and unmarried.
SECOND GENERATION
BRANCH C
Catherine Gerber Falb
Catharine Gerber, third daughter of Michael Ger-
ber, was born in Switzerland, June 20, 1801, and
emigrated with her father and family to the new
100
Sonnenberg settlement in Sugar Creek Township,
Wayne County, Ohio, in 1822, at the age of 21 years.
She was a member of the Mennonite Denomination,
being baptized October 13, 1816 at Biglen, a neigh-
boring village of her native home, near the city of
Bern. On October 24, 1829, at the age of 28 years,
she was married to Abraham Falb, another young
man of the new settlement, by Bishop Peter Schneck.
Mr. Falb was born at Konolfingen, Canton Bern,
Switzerland, October 19, 1796, a village in the Em-
mental not far from the city of Bern and emigrated
to the New Sonnenberg Settlement in 1824.
He travelled across the Atlantic Ocean on the sail
boat to New York. From there they traveled by
wagon to Ohio. Women and children rode on the
wagon and the men walked as there were a number
that emigrated to this settlement at that time.
After he was married he purchased a tract of
land in Paint Township near Mt. Eaton, then mostly
uncleared land. So he went out one day for a
location to build his future home. He picked out
a place near a natural spring, which was always the
chosen place for a home, where there is fresh run-
ning water. On the next day they had a frolic to
build his house, which was made of logs, hewn on
both sides. When they had the number of logs re-
quired, they had a frolic to build the log house by
friends and neighbors. While some men brought
in the logs to the building, other men were notching
the logs at the corners. Four men were selected,
one at each corner, and the following men were
the corner notchers: David Baumgartner, Ulrich Ger-
ber, Daniel Houmard, the fourth name not men-
101
tioned. They built the log house in one day and the
next day they moved into their new home, which
was a great achievement in those days. Naturally,
there was no cellar under the house and the floor
was dirt while the roof was made with clap boards.
Their first house stood near where John Falb's new
buildings now stand. He also purchased a farm
joining on the east. The family lived at their new
home the rest of their life, now occupied by Elias
Falb.
Catharine (Gerber) Falb died March 12, 1877, aged
75 years, 8 months and 20 days. Six children were
born to them: Anna, Barbara, Catherine, John, Eliza-
"beth, Abraham.
THIRD GENERATION
SECTION I. BRANCH C
Descendants of Catherine (Gerber) and
Abraham Falb
Anna Falb, oldest daughter of Catherine and Abra-
ham Falb, was born in Paint Township, Wayne
County, Ohio, November 6, 1830. She came into
membership of the local Sonnenberg Church and
grew up as a Christian young woman, was never
married, and died in the parental home, April 18,
1869, aged 38 years, 5 months and 10 days, mourned
by her parents, brothers and sisters.
THIRD GENERATION
SECTION II. BRANCH C
Barbara Falb, second daughter of Abraham Falb
was born March 15, 1832 and like her sisters lived
102
a life of "single blessedness" until her death, Jan-
uary 18, 1910, when she died at the high age of 77
years, 10 months and 3 days. She was a faithful
member of the Sonnenberg Church.
THIRD GENERATION
SECTION III. BRANCH C
Catharine Falb was the third daughter of Abraham
Falb, St., and was born July 19, 1833. Like her
sisters she stayed single and served her brothers'
families in sacrificing service until the age of 61
years, 2 months and 10 days. She died at her old
home September 29, 1894. She was a faithful mem-
ber of the Sonnenberg Church.
THIRD GENERATION
SECTION IV. BRANCH C
John Falb, first son of the Abraham Falb family,
was born October 20, 1834 in the parental home. Bap-
tized April 9, 1852 into the church of his parents.
He was married to Catharine Steiner, a young
woman of the neighborhood and member of the
same church, in 1877, daughter of John M. and Eliza-
beth Steiner, neighbors of the Falb family. She was
born January, 1856 and died August 7, 1885, at the
premature age of 29 years and 7 months. The couple
started their family life on the farm now occupied
by John J. Bixler, southwest of the Boone's School-
house. John Falb lived to the ripe old age of 75
years, 8 months and 21 days, dying July 11, 1910.
Five children were born to this union, as follows:
Noah, Elizabeth, Daniel, Joel, Fanny.
103
FOURTH GENERATION
John Falb, Sr., Descendants
I. Noah, oldest son of John Falb, Sr., was born
February 20, 1879. Being feebleminded, he makes
his home with his sister, Mrs. Joel Mazelin near
Berne, Indiana.
II. Elizabeth Falb, Berne, Indiana, born the oldest
daughter in the John Falb, Sr., family, March
19, 1880, Dalton, Ohio, was married to Joel Maze-
lin of Berne, Indiana, May 31, 1906 by her pastor,
Bishop Jacob Nussbaum of the Sonnenberg
Church. Joel was born November 7, 1875 near
Berne, Indiana. The couple farmed the old home-
stead a number of years, until 1920, then moved
on to Mr. Mazelin's parental farm east of Berne,
Indiana. While living in Ohio he was a success-
ful farmer of ginseng. They joined the Christian
Amish Church. The following children were
born to them, and are members of the parental
church.
FIFTH GENERATION
Joel Mazelin Family
1. Allen Mazelin was born on Sonnenberg April
20, 1907 on the old John Falb Homestead and
when a young boy moved with his parents to
Indiana. When reaching maturity, he came
back here to the haunts of his boyhood and has
been successfully engaged in ginseng farming
besides general farm work. He was married
to Rebecca Mazelin of Berne, Indiana, Feb-
ruary, 1938.
104
2. Sarah Mazelin, born October 5, 1908, is still
single and lives with her parents.
3. Elda Mazelin was born on Sonnenberg, June 6,
1910, and is now a member of the Christian
Amish Church near Berne, Indiana. She was
married June 15, 1930, to Menno Habegger,
(born March 13, 1900 at Berne, Indiana), a
member of the same church, and is a factory-
laborer. Children born to the couple are:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Edison Wayne, born March 21, 1931.
2) Pauline Elizabeth, born December 21, 1932.
FIFTH GENERATION
Joel Mazelin Family Continued
4. Rufus Mazelin, born December 27, 1911.
5. Peter J. Mazelin, born July 2, 1913.
6. Silas C. Mazelin, born May 22, 1915.
7. Martha Mazelin, born May 11, 1916.
8. Lina Mazelin, born January 17, 1918.
9. Franklin Mazelin, born March 15, 1920.
10. Mary Ann Mazelin, born January 21, 1925, at
Berne, Indiana.
FOURTH GENERATION
John Falb Descendants Continued
III. Daniel Falb, Orrville, Ohio, was born November
20, 1881. Died March 18, 1936. Brought up in
the faith and membership of the Mennonite
Church, he was married to Caroline Nussbaum,
daughter of Isaac Nussbaum, November 17, 1906
by Bishop Jacob Nussbaum. She was born near
105
Berne, Indiana, March 28, 1885. Daniel, after mar-
riage, built himself a home on the northeast 40
acres of his parental homestead, near the Boone
Schoolhouse where he farmed till 1935, when he
moved to the present home. Mr. Falb died
March 19, 1936. In 1937, Mrs. Falb and children
moved to Orrville, Ohio, where they bought a
home of their own.
FIFTH GENERATION
1. Elda G. Falb, born August 9, 1908. She is
a member of the Mennonite Church and en-
gaged in domestic work.
2. Viola M. Falb, born March 9, 1910. Also a
member of the same church and engaged in
house work.
3. Levi D. Falb, oldest son of the family, was
born November 14, 1911. He is a member of
the same church and is a very efficient hand
in farming. Married to Elizabeth Lehman of
Mahoning Co., Ohio, June 19, 1938 by Rev.
Mose Hurst of Rittman, Ohio.
4. Aldine M. Falb, born February 27, 1913, en-
gaged in household duties.
5. Ida I. Falb, born September 22. 1914, is a
member of the same church. Married to Reu-
ben Habegger of Berne, Indiana.
6. Lydia M. Falb, born December 17, 1915, is a
member of the same church. She was mar-
ried to Donald Geiser. One daughter was
born.
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Carolyn Jean, born April 20, 1938.
106
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
7. Bertha R. Falb, born April 16, 1918. She is
a church member and engaged in domestic-
work.
8. Clyde J. Falb, born September 18, 1921.
Schoolboy.
9. Raymond F. Falb, born March 2, 1924. Grade
School.
FOURTH GENERATION CONTINUED
Joel Falb Family
IV. Joel Falb, Orrville, Ohio, was born as the third
son of John Falb, May 28, 1883. He was mar-
ried to Elizabeth Berg, May 18. 1905. The cou-
ple identified itself with the Reformed Church
at Orrville. Mr. Falb had a small farm where
his house stands but is engaged at Orrville in
the employment of the railroad company, as car
inspector. Mrs. Falb died June 23, 1932. Mr.
Falb married Mary Jauslin on September 30,
1935 and moved to Orrville. The following chil-
dren mourn with their widowed father the un-
timely departure of their mother, Mr. Falb's
first wife.
FIFTH GENERATION
1. Anna Arlene Falb, Apple Creek, Ohio, R. 1,
was born February 10, 1910. She was mar-
ried to Louis Nussbaum, laborer for the Kid-
ron Auction Co., February 10, 1929, by her
pastor, Rev. A. L. Sherry of the Reformed
Church of Orrville, Ohio. Louis was born
September 25. 1906. Children born to this
union are:
107
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Betty Jean Nussbaum, born January 28,
1931.
2) Edith Ann Nussbaum, born December 21,
1932.
3) Doris Eileen Nussbaum, born February 2,
1934.
4) Kenneth Leroy Nussbaum, born November
6, 1935.
5) Gordon Nussbaum, born May 30, 1937.
FIFTH GENERATION
Joel Falb Family Continued
2. Mildred Iva Falb was born the second daugh-
ter of Joel Falb, September 29, 1911. She
was married to Elias Kiener, April 5, 1931 by
Rev. A. L. Sherry of the Orrville Reformed
Church. Mr. Kiener specializes in potato
farming. The family's address is Apple Creek,
Ohio. Children born to this union are:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Theda Marie Kiener, born April 2, 1932.
2) Elinor Elizabeth Kiener, born October 1,
1933.
3) Donevan Lee, born March 14, 1938.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
3. Mylon Wilson Falb, Orrville, Ohio, R. D. 1,
first son of Joel Falb, was born January 3,
1914. Member of the Reformed Church. Mar-
ried to Saloma Smucker, Smithville, Ohio,
R. D.
108
4. Dennis Jay Falb. born July 20, 1915. Member
of the same church.
5. Grace Elizabeth Falb, born February 22, 1917.
Member of the Reformed Church. Married to
Meredith Christian July 2, 1938 by Rev. Ellen
R. Whitney.
6. Warren Franklin Falb, born May 5, 1920. Re-
formed Church member.
7. Lillian Marie Falb, born July 28, 1923.
FOURTH GENERATION
John Falb Descendants Continued
V. Fanny Falb, Berne, Indiana, youngest child of
John Falb, was born October 23, 1884. She was
married October 27, 1907 to Albert Zuercher,
Berne, Indiana, by Rev. Jacob Nussbaum. Al-
bert was born July 26, 1885, Berne, Indiana. The
couple lives on a farm east of Berne. The fam-
ily, formerly Mennonites, now are identified
with the Nazarenes. Their children are as fol-
lows:
FIFTH GENERATION
1. Enos L. Zuercher, Orrville, Ohio, born July
15. 1908. For several years past he has served
as efficient farm hand in Wayne County, Ohio.
Mennonite.
2. George A. Zuercher, born October 30, 1909,
Berne, Indiana.
3. Metta Zuercher, born December 24, 1910.
Berne, Indiana. Nazarene.
4. Esther E. Zuercher, born June 11, 1912, died
June 11, 1912.
109
5. Elizabeth K. Zuercher, born June 7, 1913,
Berne, Indiana. Nazarene.
6. Herbert I. Zuercher, born July 8, 1915, Berne,
Indiana. Nazarene.
7. Helen E. Zuercher, born January 8, 1919,
Berne, Indiana. Nazarene.
8. John S. Zuercher, born April 3, 1921, Berne,
Indiana. Nazarene.
THIRD GENERATION
SECTION V
Abraham Falb, Sr., Descendants Continued
Elizabeth Falb, fourth daughter of Catharine (Ger-
ber) and Abraham Falb, Sr., was born January 18,
1836. She lived a long single life on her parents'
farm until February 20, 1922 when she answered the
summons of the death angel at the age of 86 years,
1 month and 2 days.
SECTION VI
Abraham Falb, Jr., was the fifth child of Abraham,
Falb, Sr. He was born on the old homestead north
of Mt. Eaton, July 27, 1839. He was married to
Mary Steiner, daughter of John and Elizabeth Stein-
er, neighbors of the Falb homestead, August 9, 1875
and went to live on his father's homestead. His wife
was born September 11, 1853. She lived to March
18, 1932, dying at the age of 78 years, 7 months, and
7 days. Her husband died September 27, 1916 at the
age of 77 years, 2 months. Children born to them
were:
110
FOURTH GENERATION
John Falb. Jr., and Family
I. John Falb, Jr. was born June 10, 1877 near Mt.
Eaton, Ohio. He was married to Mary Amstutz,
September 19, 1908 by Rev. Jacob Nussbaum.
His wife died November, 1933. One child was
born to them.
FIFTH GENERATION
1. Albert Falb, born November 28, 1909. He was
married to Edna Steiner, February 4, 1933 by
Rev. Louis Amstutz. They are both members
of the Sonnenberg Mennonite Church. Chil-
dren born to them are:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Irvin, born February 21, 1934. Died June
5, 1934.
2) Mary Catherine, born May 15, 1935.
3) Wilma Mabel, born January 11, 1937.
FOURTH GENERATION
II. Samuel Falb, born August 23, 1878; died October
13, 1891, age 13 years, 1 month and 20 days.
III. Anna Falb, third child of Abraham Falb, Jr.,
was born April 19, 1880. She was married to
Fred Kiener, as second wife, August 10, 1905, by
Rev. Jacob Nussbaum. He was born in Switzer-
land, January 15, 1860 and died in 1930. He came
to this country and settlement. He was first
married to Elizabeth Amstutz and after her
death he woed and won Anna. Three children
(besides a still born) came to this union, namely:
111
FIFTH GENERATION
1. Elias Kiener, (See above under Joel Falb
Family.)
2. Paul Kiener, Dalton, Ohio, born March 22,
1912, Apple Creek, Ohio. He married Gladys
Nussbaum. June 4, 1933 by Rev. Louis Am-
stutz. Both members of the Kidron Mennon-
ite Church. Paul is following the carpenter
trade at present. To this union is born one
son, namely:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Roger Lee, born December 9, 1934.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
3. Andrew Kiener, born February 25, 1914. He
is married to Beulah Hofstetter. They have
two children:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Merl Fredrick Kiener, born Oct. 8, 1936.
2) Lois Ann Kiener, born Jan. 2, 1938.
FOURTH GENERATION
Abraham Falb, Jr., Family Continued
IV. David Falb, Orrville, Ohio, R. D., third son of
Abraham Falb, Jr.. was born June 5, 1882. He
was married to Martha Baumgartner, daughter
of Peter Baumgartner, deceased, September 12,
1907 by Rev. Ira Buchwalter. Martha was born
May 20, 1882. The couple established their home
on a beautiful farm southeast of Orrville near
the Martin's Mennonite Church, where they have
112
been active members in church work. Mrs.
Falb died July 3, 1935. David married again
in 1937 to Dema Hurst. The following children
were born to them:
FIFTH GENERATION
1. Ivan R. Falb, Ft. Wayne, Indiana, 429 W. Lex-
ington Ave., born July 30, 1908 at Orrville,
Ohio. He is a graduate of the Orrville High
School. On August 4, 1934, he was married
to Miss Marie Von Gunten, daughter of John
L. Von Gunten, Construction Boss, Ft. Wayne,
Indiana, by Rev. S. A. Witmer, Ft. Wayne,
Indiana. Two children were born to them:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Richard Dean Falb, born July 29, 1936.
2) Martha Jane Falb, born September 21,
1938.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
2. Effie M. Falb, Louisville, Ohio, born February
2, 1910 at Orrville, Ohio. Married to Orris
Yoder, June 3, 1934 by Rev. I. J. Buchwalter,
Orrville, Ohio. She is a graduate of Orrville
High School and a member of her parents'
church. To them are born two children viz:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Norma Jean Yoder, born November 23,
1935. Died July 11, 1937.
2) Dale LaVern Yoder, born April 30, 1938.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
3. Milton G. Falb, Orrville, Ohio, born February
113
5, 1912, also graduated from Orrville High
School, member of the same church. Farmer.
4. Irene E. Falb, born May 11, 1915. At home.
Attended Orrville H. S. and member of same
church.
5. George E. Falb, born July 22, 1919. Senior
Orrville H. S.
FOURTH GENERATION
Abraham Falb, Jr., Family Continued
V. Elias Falb, Dalton, Ohio, R. 2, was born March
7, 1885. He was married to Elizabeth Lehman
January 8, 1918 by Rev. C. N. Amstutz of the
Sonnenberg Church. She was born October 13,
1887. They live on the homestead of his grand-
father, Abraham Falb, in Paint Township, north
of Mt. Eaton. Church of Nondenomination; "One
Faith in Christ." Children born to them are as
follows:
FIFTH GENERATION
1. Dennis Falb, born October 2, 1918. He is at
home and a member of his father's church.
2. Isaiah Falb, born February 23, 1920. Mem-
ber of the same church.
3. Bertha Falb, born November 26, 1921. Died
the same day.
4. Paul Falb, born July 29, 1923. Member of the
same church.
FOURTH GENERATION CONTINUED
VI. Sarah Falb. Dalton, Ohio, was born December
13, 1886. She was married to Walter G. Snavely,
October 29, 1931, by Rev. S. F. Flohr of the Mt.
114
Eaton Reformed Church. Mr. Snavely was born
near Navarre, August 15, 1882. The couple is
living on a farm near West Lebanon. They be-
long to the Protestant Church at West Lebanon.
They have no children. Sarah died February
25, 1937.
VII. Lydia Falb was born December 22, 1890 and
was married to Amos Nussbaum, February 28,
1924. Amos Nussbaum, son of Abraham Nuss-
baum, was born near Berne, Indiana, Novem-
ber 13, 1887. The marriage vow was received
by the couple's pastor, Rev. C. N. Amstutz.
They live on Mr. Nussbaum's farm west of
Kidron. Address, Apple Creek, Ohio, R. 1.
Three children were born to this union and
added to Mr. Nussbaum's family of a former
marriage broken by death. (Both are mem-
bers of the Mennonite Church.)
FIFTH GENERATION
1. Irvin Allen Nussbaum born April 11, 1925.
2. Nathan Evan Nussbaum, born Sept. 23, 1928.
3. Delvin Dale Nussbaum, born July 13, 1930.
FOURTH GENERATION CONTINUED
VIII. Martha Falb, Apple Creek, Ohio, was born into
the family of Abraham Falb, Jr., May 27, 1894.
She was married to Albert Baumgartner, son of
C. D. Baumgartner (born April 6, 1887) No-
vember 25, 1919 by Bishop C. N. Amstutz of
the Sonnenberg Church. Both are members of
the Mennonite Church. The couple live on
a beautiful farm two miles south of Kidron on
115
the U. S. 250 highway. Two children have
been born to them, namely:
FIFTH GENERATION
1. Infant son born November 18, 1921, died
the same day.
2. Esther Baumgartner, born Nov. 11, 1924.
SECOND GENERATION
BRANCH D
John M. Gerber, Sr.
John M. Gerber, Sr., fourth issue and first son
of Deacon Michael Gerber, was born in Switzerland,
October 21, 1803, the year when Napoleon Bona-
parte I, made Switzerland the "Helvetic Republic",
raising all former subject territories into six new
cantons, thus increasing the number of cantons from
the original thirteen to nineteen, but making the
Helvetic Republic a virtual dependency of France,
compelled to have a constant contingent of Swiss
heroes in his standing army.
Young John Gerber emigrated with his father as
a youth of 18 years to America in 1822 where he
helped carve a new homestead out of the primeval
forest that was the new Sonnenberg, on the quarter
section now comprising the farms of Rufus Gerber
and Adam Hofstetter, northwest of the Boone School
House, four miles south of Dalton, Ohio.
John was married at the age of 27 years, December
14, 1830, to Elizabeth Steiner, daughter of a pioneer
neighbor, John Steiner, in the new Sonnenberg set-
tlement. The young couple finally made their per-
116
manent home on the west half of the original quar-
ter section, where the original home had been built,
the east half being soon occupied by his younger
brother, Ulrich. John lived to the ripe age of almost
76 years, till August 20, 1879. The author of this
book was 4 years old, and remembers of his grand-
father's funeral. His wife preceded him in death
almost 24 years, having died December 28, 1855,
after presenting him with twelve offspring, as fol-
lows: Anna, Catharina, Elizabeth, Peter M., Chris-
tian M., John M., Barbara, Fanny, Magdalena, Marie,
Daniel M., and Regina. The offspring of this Branch
D, in 135 years, are 811 souls, from 1803 to 1938.
THIRD GENERATION
SECTION I. BRANCH D
Descendants of John M. Gerber, Sr.
Anna Gerber, first child of John M. Gerber, Sr..
was born February 27, 1831 and married to Chris-
tian Amstutz, October 7, 1854, by Peter Schneck.
minister of the Sonnenberg Mennonite Church, and
the young couple permanently settled on the farm
now occupied by Christian A. Nussbaum just north-
east of Kidron. They were both Sonnenberg Men-
nonite Church members (as all couples married by
a minister of that church of necessity must be).
Christian Amstutz was born November 23, 1830, and
lived till August 4, 1893, dying at the age of 62 years,
8 months and 11 days. His wife (Anna Gerber) died
April 18, 1881, aged 50 years. Ten children were
117
born into this family as follows: John, Daniel, Anna,
Leah, Joel, Judith, Leah, Magdalena, Daniel, Peter.
FOURTH GENERATION
I. John C. Amstutz, born in 1856 near Kidron, Ohio,
was married October 13, 1878 to Susan Steiner
by Peter Schneck at Sonnenberg, Ohio. Susan
was born March 10, 1862, at Chippewa, north of
Orrville, Ohio, where they lived till 1900, when
with their family of 10 children they moved to
Geary, Oklahoma. In 1909, with 8 children, they
made another move, still farther west, to Salem,
Oregon, where both parents died. John in 1915
and Susan in 1912. Many joys and sorrows they
had experienced together, bringing up 13 chil-
dren to maturity without a loss of any, which is
a record well worth recording. After the parents'
death the children all went back to Geary, Okla-
homa, where they settled down. The following
children were born to them: Ella, Celeste, Wes-
ley, Harvey, Lydia, Pearl, Earl, Waldo, Milo, Nora,
Ira, Elma, Dillman.
FIFTH GENERATION
Descendants of John C. Amstutz
1. Ella Amstutz, oldest daughter of John C. Am-
stutz, was born October 15, 1879 near Orrville,
Ohio, and died in the bloom of youth, Novem-
ber 6, 1898, aged 19 years and 22 days. She
was married early in the same year to Dan B.
Amstutz, but died during her confinement. The
child did not live.
2. Celeste, second daughter of John C. Amstutz,
118
now living at Mission, Texas, was born June
22, 1882, and married to Jacob Base, March 11,
1902, at Geary, Oklahoma, by the pastor of
her church, Rev. Jacob S. Krehbiel (Mennon-
ite). Mr. Base was born September 3, 1873, at
Kreisstadt, Russia. They live in the rich sub-
tropical country along the Rio Grande River,
near the southern extremity of Texas. They
have identified themselves with Christian (Dis-
ciple) Church at Mission. Their children arc:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Irwin W. Base, Geary, Okahoma, born June
9, 1903. was married to Maggie Mae Rob-
ertson, July 17, 1927, by Rev. G. O. Osborn
of the Christian Church. Maggie was born
June 6, 1906, at Texahoma, Oklahoma. Mr.
Base is a contractor by trade.
2) Clarence Base, was born at Geary, Okla-
homa, January 26, 1907 and married to Meta
Zobisch, November 26, 1928, by Rev. W.
Mathys. Children reported:
9* jhyiN^^%^
Seven Sons of Mr. and Mrs. John C. Amstutz, Geary, Okla.
Earl, Harvey, Milo, Waldo (Died), Wesley, Ira, Dillman.
119
SEVENTH GENERATION
(1) Zear Harvey Base, born May 16, 1932.
(2) Ann Celeste Base, born Feb. 9, 1935.
SIXTH GENERATION CONTINUED
3) Harvey G. Base was born January 5, 1915.
Was married to Imogene Bringham Feb-
ruary 8, 1938. She was born June 28, 1917.
FIFTH GENERATION
John C. Amstutz Family Continued
3. Wesley Amstutz was born in Wayne County,
Ohio, February 18, 1884. He is unmarried.
4. Harvey Amstutz, Geary, Oklahoma, was born
November 8, 1886.
5. Lydia Amstutz, Geary, Oklahoma, was born
September 16, 1888, near Orville, Ohio. She
was married to Rev. Henry Funk, June 14,
1908 by Rev. J. S. Krehbiel, pastor of the Gen-
eral Conference Mennonite Church at Geary,
of which the couple were members. Mr. Funk
was born April 18, 1880, in Germany. Soon
after the opening of Indian Territory he accom-
panied his parents and family into their new
home, Geary, Oklahoma. Mr. Funk's father,
also a minister of the same conference, was a
native of Seehaus Baden, Germany, and his
mother of Bavaria. Rev. Funk was ordained
to the ministry by his pastor of the General
Conference Mennonite Church at Hydro, Okla-
homa, a neighboring village. He is also farm-
ing near Geary, Oklahoma, his address. Eight
children have been born to this union:
120
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Verna Mae Funk, Geary, Oklahoma, was
born April 21, 1909. At home. Member
of parent church.
2) Lawrence Ray Funk, R. D. 3. Geary, Okla-
homa, was born December 4, 1913. Farmer.
He was married to Audray Miller, (born No-
vember 16, 1917), October 28, 1933, by his
father, Rev. Henry Funk. They are Baptist.
SEVENTH GENERATION
(1) Vera Irene Funk, born Nov. 19, 1935.
(2) Wilma Funk, born January 5, 1938.
SIXTH GENERATION CONTINUED
3) Harry Roy Funk, was born November 10,
1917; died October 30, 1920 of diphtheria.
4) Helen Marie Funk, was born November 21,
1921. At home. Mennonite.
5) Earl Roy Funk was born November 16, 1923.
Member of same church.
6) Louis Dale Funk was born Dec. 26, 1925.
7) Harold Glen Funk was born Feb. 2, 1928.
8) Paul Henry Funk was born August 15, 1931.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
Pearl Amstutz, Geary, Oklahoma, was born
October 3, 1890. She was married to Harry
Coil, Geary, Oklahoma, November 20, 1910, by
Rev. J. S. Krehbiel. Harry was born Nov. 8,
1889 at Lincoln, Kansas. Two children came
to their home, viz:
121
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Lucile Coil, Geary, Oklahoma, born Feb-
ruary 20, 1913. Married to John Paul Mc-
Mann, May 5, 1934.
2) Vernon Lee Coil, Geary, Oklahoma, born
January 22, 1921, member of Mennonite
faith.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
7. Earl A. Amstutz, Geary, Oklahoma, was born
March 7, 1893, at Orrville, Ohio. He was mar-
ried to Ethel Mae Stephens, May 5. 1918 by
Rev. Henry Riesen. Ethel was born January
11, 1899, at Ewing, 111. They are Mennonites,
and engaged as farmers. Two children have
brought sunshine to their home.
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Dorothy Amstutz, Geary, Oklahoma, born
December 31, 1920. Mennonite.
2) Dwight Earl Amstutz, born September 9,
1929.
FIFTH GENERATION
John C. Amstutz Family Continued
8. Waldo Amstutz, Geary, Oklahoma, was born
October 12, 1895 near Orrville, Ohio, and mar-
ried to Edna Rae Stephens, May 5, 1918 by
Rev. Henry Riesen, of the First Mennonite
Church there. Edna was born Jan. 11, 1899,
at Ewing, 111. One child was born to them.
Waldo died Januarv 4, 1927.
122
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Wayne Dale Amstutz was born January
15, 1920.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
9. Milo Warren Amstutz. Tulsa, Oklahoma, 3224
E. 4th St., was born August 17, 1896, near Orr-
ville, Ohio. He is a banker. He was married
to Tillie Velma Coil, May 5, 1918 by Rev. Henry
Riesen, of the First Mennonite Church, Geary,
Oklahoma. They are Baptists by church per-
suasion. Tillie was born April 16, 1898, Geary,
Oklahoma. Four children blessed their home:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Glenn Doyle Amstutz, born at Yakon, Okla-
homa, June 13, 1920.
2) Ray Warren Amstutz, born at Yakon, Okla-
homa, December 17, 1923.
3) Norma Jean Amstutz, born September 27,
1926, Tulsa, Oklahoma.
4) Dale Calvin Amstutz, born September 13,
1930, Tulsa, Oklahoma.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
10. Ira V. Amstutz, Tulsa, Oklahoma, R. F. D. 8,
born August 3, 1898, near Orrville, Ohio. When
two years old his father and family moved to
Geary, Oklahoma. He is married to Edith Stum-
bo. Edith was born August 21, 1899. They are
members of the Mennonite Church at Tulsa,
Oklahoma. Ira is employed by the Mid Con-
tinent Ref. Co. Four children blessed their
home.
123
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Jerry Lou Amstutz, born May 28, 1921, at
Geary, Oklahoma.
2) Mary Francis Amstutz, born December 27,
1922, Tulsa, Oklahoma.
3) Ira Vernon Amstutz, Jr., born April 18.
1924, Tulsa, Oklahoma.
4) Robert Lee Amstutz. born August 17, 1930,
Tulsa, Oklahoma.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
11. Nora Mae Amstutz, Los Angeles, California,
935 Century Blvd., was born a twin sister to
Ira A., August 3, 1898. She was married to
Harvey Francis Hurst, March 3, 1934. Mr.
Hurst is a secretary-stenographer. He was
born September 24, 1897.
12. Elma Amstutz, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.
1806 N. W. Ave., 36th St. She was born June
19, 1900 and married to Floyd B. Payne, April
9, 1921 at Chandler. Okla. He is a radio
mechanic. He was born May 30, 1891. The
couple belongs to the Baptist Church. One
child has been born to them:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Robert W. Payne, born September 11, 1926.
FIFTH GENERATION
John Amstutz Family Concluded
13. Dillman Amstutz was born March 5, 1903,
Geary, Oklahoma. Married to Esther Moore.
One daughter was born.
124
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Jane Ellen.
FOURTH GENERATION
John C. Amstutz Family Continued
II. Daniel Amstutz was born 1857; died in infancy.
III. Anna Amstutz was born May 22, 1858. She was
married to John Berg, Dalton, Ohio, March 25,
1880. They lived a number of years on one of
the three pioneer farms, now owned by John
P. Lehman near the Sonnenberg Schoolhouse.
They later moved to Dalton where Mrs. Berg
died in 1921, aged 63 years. Mr. Berg died in
1932. Born 1856. The following children have
been born to them:
FIFTH GENERATION
John Berg Family
1. Alice Berg, born March 21, 1881, married to
Peter C. Sommer, November 8, 1900, by Rev.
Joel Lehman, Salem Church. Mr. Sommer
was born March 21, 1880. The couple settled
on Mr. Sommer's parental place, one and one-
half mile east of Kidron, where he has been
making quite a success in fruit and vegetable
farming. The couple belong to the Kidron
Tabernacle Church. Two children have been
born to them:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Denver Sommer, Dalton, Ohio, born Jan-
uary 7, 1907, was married to Helen Shank-
lin of Pleasant Valley, southeast of Dal-
125
ton, Ohio, June 14, 1930. Mrs. Sommer was
born June 14, 1906. They are members
of the Salem Church. The couple is living
in a new home located on his father's farm
and Denver is assisting him on his fruit
farm. They have no children of their own
so far but have adopted a little girl.
2) Glenda Sommer was born July 16, 1916,
and married by Rev. Adam Sommer, Kid-
ron, Ohio, December 25, 1934, to Armin
Burkholder, (born July 3, 1913), son of
John Burkholder, east of Kidron. He is
assisting his father in farming. They are
members of the Kidron Tabernacle Church.
One child has been born to them:
SEVENTH GENERATION
(1) Ray Wayne Burkholder, born March
6, 1937.
FIFTH GENERATION
John Berg Family Continued
2. Leah Berg was born March 25, 1882, and mar-
ried, first, to Samuel Roberts, March 26, 1904
by Rev. Beck, Mt. Eaton Reformed Church.
This union was increased by five children:
Samuel was born September 10, 1876, and
died April 4, 1930.
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Glenn Doyle Roberts, Dalton, Ohio, was
born June 12, 1905. He was married to
Nora E. Snurr, August 17, 1932 by Elias J.
126
Knock, Wheeling, West Virginia. Nora
was born January 24, 1912, Wadsworth,
Ohio. They are farmers. Members of Re-
formed Church. This union increased by
three children by date of report:
SEVENTH GENERATION
(1) Leah Roberts, born January 24, 1934.
(2) Viola Marie, born March 28, 1935.
(3) Edna Elizabeth, born August 3, 1936.
SIXTH GENERATION
2) Mable Irene Roberts, Orrville, Ohio, was
born April 6, 1908, and married Marion P.
Smucker, June 23, 1929, by Rev. A. L.
Scherry, Reformed Church, Orrville, Ohio.
Mr. Smucker is a mechanic. Marion was
born September 1, 1906, near Orrville, O.
The couple has four children:
SEVENTH GENERATION
(1) Marjory Anna Smucker, born May 23,
1930.
(2) Harold Allen Smucker, born March 21,
1933. Died August 14, 1933.
(3) Louise Mae Smucker, born May 20,
1934.
(4) Leland Dale Smucker, born July 2,
1935.
SIXTH GENERATION CONTINUED
3) Ruth Anna Roberts, Orrville, Ohio, was
born February 5, 1910, and married to Ray-
mond F. Schrock, November 8, 1928, by
127
Rev. A. L. Scherry, Reformed Church. He
was born October 3, 1907. They live on a
farm. Children born to them:
SEVENTH GENERATION
(1) Alice Marie Schrock was born August
31, 1933.
(2) Janet Irene, born June 6, 1938.
SIXTH GENERATION CONTINUED
4) Emma Viola Roberts was born August 21,
1913. and married Milton C. Lehman, Au-
gust 8. 1933, by Rev. A. L. Scherry, Orr-
ville, Ohio. They are affiliated with the
Reformed Church. Milton was born August
24, 1909 and is a fireman by trade.
SEVENTH GENERATION
(1) Robert Merle Lehman, born August
14, 1934.
(2) Dorothy Jane Lehman, born October
1, 1935.*
(3) Ethel Mae Lehman, born Dec. 15, 1936.
(4) June Marie, born July 18, 1938.
SIXTH GENERATION CONTINUED
5) Lela Marie Roberts, Orrville, Ohio, was
born January 5, 1924. Member of the Re-
formed Church.
Leah Berg Roberts married a second husband,
Fred Lautenslager, Orrville, Ohio, March 7, 1931 by
Rev. A. L. Scherry, Orrville, Ohio. Fred was born
October 16, 1876, of Apple Creek, Ohio. He is a
carpenter. No issue from this union.
128
FIFTH GENERATION
John Berg Family Continued
Philip Berg was born in 1883. He married as
his first wife, Sarah Bixler, daughter of
(Swiss) John Bixler, Sr., who lived on the
farm now occupied by John D. Bixler, east
of Jericho. Date of marriage is not reported,
but was solemnized by Rev. Joel Lehman then
pastor of the Salem Church of which the
couple were members. The family lived on the
old Berg homestead, southeast of Dalton.
Sarah died March 16, 1913. Eight children
were born to this union, as follows:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Grace Berg, Dalton, Ohio, born May 18,
1902, was married to George Selder of
Pleasant Valley. One child born to them.
SEVENTH GENERATION
(1) Marie, born May 1, 1922.
SIXTH GENERATION CONTINUED
2) Ellen L. Berg, Dalton, Ohio, born Novem-
ber 19, 1904, was married to Amos I. Nuss-
baum, April 21, 1924, at Detroit, Michigan,
by Arthur E. Gordon. Amos was born
April 25, 1901. He is a steel worker. Mem-
ber of the U. P. Church. Four children
reported:
SEVENTH GENERATION
(1) Harold Gordon Nussbaum. born May
20, 1927. Member of the U. P. Church.
129
(2) Harley Dean Nussbaum)
(3) Harry Duane Nussbaum) Twins, born
July 28, 1930.— died July 30, 1930.
(4) Harlon Loyal Nussbaum, born Sep-
tember 6, 1936.
(5) Genevieve Nussbaum, born 1937.
SIXTH GENERATION CONTINUED
3) Sadie Berg, born October 3, 1903; died
November 24, 1903.
4) Martha Berg, born September 19, 1906;
died October 31, 1915.
5) John Berg, born December 22, 1907.
6) Clyde Berg, born January 27, 1910. Mar-
ried to Ruth McClennan.
7) Elvina Berg, born February 17, 1912, mar-
ried Earl Bixler. son of Daniel D. Bixler,
four miles south of Dalton, by Rev. Adam
W. Sommer of the Kidron Tabernacle. Earl
was born August 21, 1913. They are now
members of the Kidron Mennonite Church.
8) Marie Berg was born March 10, 1913 and
married to Arthur Royer in October, 1934.
Philip Berg was married to his second wife, Ro-
sena Moser, daughter of Rev. Jacob Moser, August 7,
1914, by H. H. Blosser, Orrville, Ohio. Philip died
March 8, 1919. To this union were born five children,
as follows:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Lillie Berg, born March 13, 1914.
2) Maude Berg, born April 12, 1915, Dalton,
Ohio. She was married to Ira Abram Am-
130
stutz, June 26, 1937, by Rev. A. J. Steiner.
Both of them belong to the Mennonite
Church. Ira was born April 20, 1907 and is
a graduate of Goshen College, now teach-
ing at Walnut Creek, Ohio, High School.
3) Florence Berg, born June 10, 1916: died
December, 1919.
4) Ford Berg, born December 4, 1917. Af-
filiated with the Mennonite Church.
5) Rosella Berg, born February 19, 1919. Af-
filiated with the Mennonite Church.
FIFTH GENERATION
John Berg Family Continued
4. Grover Louis Berg, born in 1884, died in 1930.
He was married, October 22, 1910, to Marietta
Schwartz (see under Christ Schwartz family
account) .
5. Elizabeth Berg, born in 1885, died in 1932, wife
of Joel Falb (See under Falb relation).
6. Peter Berg, Columbus, Ohio, was born
1887. On October 28, 1909 he was married
to Rosa Kurzen by Rev. J. V. Findley of the
Dalton Presbyterian Church, of which the
couple are members. Mr. Berg has sold out
at Dalton and is now engaged in business at
Columbus, Ohio. Five children have brought
sunshine to this home:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Clair E. Berg, Bellevue, Ohio, was born
September 19, 1910. He is a Methodist
131
and is stepping into his father's footsteps
as a successful merchant at Bellevue, Ohio.
He was married to Imogene Kinley, June 3,
1934, by Rev. Harry Cotton, Columbus,
Ohio. She was born March 31, 1913.
2) Glenn W. Berg, Dalton, Ohio, was born
September 26, 1912. He is an on-coming
salesman, too.
3) Walter L. Berg, born May 23, 1916, died
January 26, 1917.
4) Mary E. Berg, born June 8, 1919.
5) Richard W. Berg, born December 18, 1924;
died December 18, the same day.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
Albert Berg, Dalton, Ohio, born April 27, 1888,
was married to Maggie Isch, November 29,
1911 by Rev. Biosser of Orrville. He farms
the old Berg farm southeast of Dalton. Mag-
gie, born January 30, 1888. Six children were
added to the family, as follows:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Thelma Berg, Canton, Ohio, was born Au-
gust 22, 1912. She is married to P. Shultz-
man, since August, 1933.
2) Willard Berg, born February 23, 1914. Dal-
ton, Ohio.
3) Ila Berg, born January 1, 1917; died June
28, 1925.
4) Merle Berg, born October 7, 1918.
5) Helen Berg, born October 10, 1923.
6) Richard Berg, born April 20, 1928.
132
FIFTH GENERATION
John Berg Family Continued
8. Clara Berg, born 1889; died 1892.
9. Iva Belle Berg, born 1892; died 1915.
10. John Berg, born 1893, died the same year.
11. Ida Anna Berg, born September 18, 1897, was
married to Abraham I. Nussbaum, living on
the farm at the junction of the Kidron Road
with U. S. No. 30, west of Dalton. The wed-
ding was solemnized by Rev. J. G. Madge,
April 3, 1915, Dalton, Ohio; United Pres-
byterian. Mr. Nussbaum was born near Berne,
Indiana, in 1894, from whence he came to
Wayne County, Ohio, with his father Isaac
as a small boy. Five children have been
born to them:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Bessie Evelyn Nussbaum, born December
27, 1915, was married to Andrew Walkerow
of Barberton, Ohio, May 9, 1933 by Rev.
Pinkerton of Dalton U. P. Church. One
child.
SEVENTH GENERATION
(1) Ellen Louise Walkerow was born to
them, February 22, 1934.
SIXTH GENERATION CONTINUED
2) Marvin Laverne Nussbaum, born Decem-
ber 10, 1918. United Presbyterian.
3) Dorothy Pearl Nussbaum, born July 29,
1925. U. P.
133
4) Russel Jay Nussbaum, born July 6, 1929.
U. P.
5) Dallas Roy Nussbaum, born May 30, 1932.
FIFTH GENERATION
John Berg Family Continued
12. Milton Berg, Dalton, Ohio, born in 1899, was
married to Ila Mae Lowe, November 26, 1924,
by Rev. Zaugg. The following children have
been born to them:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Curtis Milton, born June 1, 1925.
2) Marjory Fay Berg, born February 5, 1928.
3) Norman Willis Berg, born April 6, 1930.
4) Edna Mae Berg, born October 22, 1931.
5) Merle Edwin Berg, born June 2, 1933.
FIFTH GENERATION
John Berg Family Concluded
13. A. J. Berg, born 1905, died 1906.
FOURTH GENERATION
Chris Amstutz Family Continued
IV. Leah Amstutz, born 1860, died in infancy.
V. Joel Amstutz, born March 25, 1861, was married,
first, to Sarah Steiner, November 27, 1884 who
died after a few years without leaving offspring.
Joel was married a second time to Belle Ross,
east of Kidron, September 24, 1891. One child
was born to this union. Joel died in 1920 and
Belle, July 12, 1932.
134
FIFTH GENERATION
1. Mary Ruth Amstutz, daughter of Joel and
Belle (Ross) Amstutz, was born June 1, 1893,
and died of appendicitis, May 18, 1904.
NOTE: Joel Amstutz lived on the farm now occupied
by Sylvester Lehman and later moved to Apple
Creek. They were Methodists.
FOURTH GENERATION CONTINUED
VI. Judith Amstutz, Bellaire, Michigan, was born
June 9, 1862, near Kidron, Ohio, and died 1925,
aged 63 years. She was married to George Berg,
November 27, 1883 by Rev. Kenner, Wooster,
Ohio. They lived east of Dalton for a few years
and later moved to Michigan. George died July
1938. They were Mennonites. Eight children
sprang from this union:
FIFTH GENERATION
George Berg Family
1. Daniel Berg, Bellair, Michigan, was born Jan-
uary 11, 1888, at North Lawrence, Ohio. He
was married to Lola Rauch, March 1, 1911,
by L. E. Ellis. Lola was born July 2, 1895,
Bellaire, Michigan. Children born to this wed-
lock were:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Henry Daniel Berg, born October 27, 1914.
2) Winifred Bertha Berg, born February 14,
1921.
3) Charles Lindy Berg, born March 2, 1929.
4) Marylin Betty Berg, born July 17, 1931.
135
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
Alfred Berg, Bellaire, Michigan, was born May
4, 1890, at Dalton, Ohio. He was married to
Laura Weeman, March 18, 1909 by Rev. H. C.
Blosser, Orrville, Ohio. Laura was born No-
vember 9, 1890, Orrville, Ohio. Occupation,
well drilling. Their religion, Missionary
Band. Four children were born to this fam-
ily:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Marie lone Berg, Bellvedere, 111., born
March 24, 1910, at Bellaire, Michigan, was
married September 26, 1929, to Rev. W. J.
Hansen, by Rev. F. B. Whisler. Rev. Han-
sen was born November 24, 1902, at Chi-
cago, 111. They are Free Methodists. Three
children brought sunshine to this home:
SEVENTH GENERATION
(1) Bennie J. Hansen, born January 1, 1932
at Bellaire, Michigan.
(2) Richard Hansen, born August 3, 1930,
at Bellaire, Michigan.
(3) John Wesley Hansen, born October 26,
1934 at Bellaire, Michigan.
Their address: Belvedere, 111., 423 N.
Main.
SIXTH GENERATION CONTINUED
2) Glade DeVere Berg was born November
21, 1911. He is engaged in farming.
3) Leo George Berg, Bellaire, Michigan, born
136
April 19, 1915. Married Ruth Struthers,
August 12, 1935, Missionary Band.
4) Wilbur Alfred Berg, born July 7, 1919.
5) One infant died.
FIFTH GENERATION
George Berg Family Continued
3. Matilda Berg was born March 27, 1893. She
was married to Christ A. Geiser, Orrville,
Ohio, May 20, 1909, by Rev. Cromer. Mr.
Geiser was born July 26, 1888 in Switzerland.
Occupation farmer. Seven children blessed
this union:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Edna Louise Geiser, Akron, Ohio. 2253 East
Ave. was born December 11, 1910, and
married to Allen Spotts. They live at
Akron, Ohio.
2) Ora Carl Geiser was born February 28,
1914 at Orrville, Ohio. He is married to
Helen Misere.
3) Mollie Irene Geiser, born February 1, 1917.
Nurse.
4) Luella Feme Geiser, born January 29, 1920.
5) Elsie Marguerite Geiser, born July 12, 1921.
6) Claire Arthur Geiser, born March 20, 1925.
7) Ella Mae Geiser, born April 14, 1930.
FIFTH GENERATION
George Berg Family Continued
4. Ella Berg, was born January 19, 1894. She
married David Weeman, September 22, 1913,
137
at Bellaire, Michigan, by Rev. Exiner. David
was born near Orrville, Ohio, January 15,
1887. Mrs. Weeman died August 27, 1926. Re-
formed. The union produced two children:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Laura Viola Weeman, born July 25, 1914.
Methodist.
2) Johnnie Roy Weeman, born October 2,
1922. Methodist.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
5. Lena Berg was born August 13, 1895. She was
married May 15, 1916, to Edward Kaiser by
Rev. Cross. They live at Bellaire, Michigan.
Three children blessed this home:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Dorothy Julia Kaiser, born March 25, 1917,
married to Clayton Wilson, March 25, 1933.
2) Delia Margaret Kaiser, was born April 27,
1919.
3) Earl Edward Kaiser was born June 22, 1922.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
6. Mellie Emma Berg was born August 3, 1897
near Dalton, Ohio, and married to John Nolt,
April 2, 1918 by Rev. Jenkins. Mr. Nolt
was born December 3, 1894. Their address is
Marshallville, Ohio. Occupation truck driver
and salesman. They have ten children:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) George B. Nolt, born December 23, 1918.
Member Evangelist.
138
2) Alton H. Nolt, born February 6, 1920. Mem-
ber Evangelist.
3) Roy E. Nolt, born November 21, 1921. Mem-
ber Evangelist.
4) Glenn R. Nolt, born October 20, 1923. Mem-
ber Evangelist.
5) Florence I. Nolt, born January 30, 1925.
Member Evangelist.
6) Herbert J. Nolt, born August 18, 1928.
Member Evangelist.
7) Frances A. Nolt, born November 7, 1930.
Member Evangelist.
8) Mildred E. Nolt, born October 16, 1932.
9) Ralph L. Nolt, born April 21, 1934.
10) Walter L. Nolt, born March 21, 1936.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
7. Laura Berg was born March 27, 1899 and mar-
ried to George Gardner, October 31, 1919. They
lived at Bellaire, Michigan. Both were
drowned while skating near their home on
a lake, January 2, 1922. They left two chil-
dren:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Ruth Ella Berg, born August 12, 1920.
2) George Wesley, born August 21, 1921.
FIFTH GENERATION
George Berg Family Concluded
8. Sarah Berg, Bellaire, Michigan, youngest
daughter of George Berg, was born Novem-
ber 17, 1903, near Apple Creek. Ohio, and
139
married Rolland Lessard, May 31, 1921 by-
Rev. Jenkins of Bellaire, Michigan, and live
on a farm five miles Southwest of Bellaire,
Michigan. Rolland was born December 31,
1900. Six children were born to them:
■ SIXTH GENERATION
1) Lucille Ella Lessard, born December 23,
1921.
2) Robert George Lessard, born May 19, 1923.
3) Marjorie Lorayne Lessard, born November
7, 1924.
4) Infant son born May 20, 1928, still born.
5) Theresa Louise Lessard, born April 17,
1932.
6) Rolland Louise Lessard. born January 20,
1936, lived only 30 hours.
7) Josephine Marie Lessard, born June 13th,
1937.
FOURTH GENERATION
Chris. Amstutz Family Continued
VII. Leah Amstutz was born October 23, 1863, and
married to Christian Badertscher, December
13, 1888 by Rev. Joel Lehman. Christian was
born near Bern, Switzerland and came to this
settlement with his parents in the early '80's.
They built themselves a new home southwest
of the Salem Church of which they were mem-
bers, and lived there until the death of Mr.
Badertscher, August 19, 1920. Mrs. Badert-
scher died November 30, 1933. Four children
were born to them, as follows:
140
FIFTH GENERATION
Chris. Badertscher Family
1. Olive Badertscher, Apple Creek, Ohio, was
born September 9, 1889 and married to Al-
bert Nussbaum, March 8, 1913, by Rev. S.
P. Preheim. They first lived on the farm,
but soon built for themselves a cozy home
in West Kidron. Mr. Nussbaum is a car-
penter contractor. The family worships at
the Orrville Gospel Tabernacle. Albert was
born September 15, 1888, Berne, Indiana.
Four children grace their home:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Millen W. Nussbaum, carpenter by trade,
was born May 19, 1915, Apple Creek, O.
2) Vida L. Nussbaum, was born December
7, 1916.
3) Florence E. Nussbaum was born May 4,
1918.
4) Eunice L. Nussbaum was born May 3,
1924.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
2. Harvey Badertscher, Orrville, Ohio, was
born April 17, 1891. He was married to
Edna May Hofstetter, daughter of Peter and
and Seraphine Hofstetter of Massillon, Ohio,
November 12, 1916 by Rev. W. S. Gottshall.
The family lives in Orrville, Ohio, where
Mr. Badertscher is engaged in driving a gas
truck. They identified themselves with the
141
Gospel Tabernacle at Kidron, Ohio. Chil-
dren born to them are:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Valeda Doris Badertscher, born March
10, 1919, member Christian Faith.
2) Eleanor Vonetta Badertscher, born Au-
gust 10, 1921. Member Christian Faith.
3) Wilford Dale Badertscher, born Novem-
ber 22, 1923. Member Christian Faith.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
. Pearl Eva Badertscher, Dalton, Ohio, was
born March 10, 1893, Dalton, Ohio, Route 2,
and married to Milo Villard, November 9,
1913, by Rev. S. P. Preheim of the Salem
Church. Milo was born June 22, 1891. They
belong to the Kidron Tabernacle. His occu-
pation is spring maker. Five children have
come into their home, as follows:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Laverne E. Villard, Dalton, Ohio, born
at Orrville, Ohio, July 2, 1915. Member
of the Kidron Tabernacle.
2) Wavalene Mae Villard, born May 1, 1917,
at Mt. Eaton, Ohio. Member of Kidron
Tabernacle.
3) Evelyn Elaine Villard, born January 2,
1919, at Mt. Eaton, Ohio. Member of
Kidron Tabernacle.
4) Kenneth Leroy Villard, born July 18,
1923, Dalton, Ohio.
142
5) Violet Eileen Villard, born May 17, 1925,
Dalton, Ohio.
FIFTH GENERATION
Christ Badertscher Family Continued
4. Carrie Alpha Badertscher, (twin sister with
Pearl) was born March 10, 1893. She is
married to George Sprunger, 4112 Fairfield
Ave., Fort Wayne. Indiana, November 9,
1913, by Rev. S. P. Preheim. Mr. Sprunger
is a carpenter and contractor, and the fam-
ily worships at the Missionary Church there.
Mrs. Villard and Mrs. Sprunger, twin sis-
ters, were married in a double wedding
ceremony, November 9, 1913, and a remem-
brance of the occasion was the fact that it
snowed and stormed so much on that day,
that their ceremony could not be had at
the Salem Church and with difficulty they
were married at their parental home. Car-
rie and George have had the following chil-
dren:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Royle Laverne Sprunger, Decatur, In-
diana, was born August 16, 1914. He is
a bookkeeper. He was married to Elaine
Welty, March 9, 1935, at Chicago, Illinois,
by Rev. W. O. Klopfenstein. The bride
is a daughter of C. C. Welty, Ft. Wayne.
Elaine was born January 19, 1913, at
Pandora, Ohio. Member of the Mission-
ary Church. Two children were born
to them:
143
SEVENTH GENERATION
(1) Carolyn Lou Sprunger, born March
8, 1936, Fort Wayne, Indiana.
(2) Gloria Kay Sprunger, born March
28, 1937, Fort Wayne, Indiana.
SIXTH GENERATION
2) Vernelle Mae Sprunger. born September
20, 1916; died October 1, 1921.
3) Virginia Jane Sprunger, born April 14,
1921.
4) Loren George Sprunger, born July 6,
1924.
FOURTH GENERATION
Chris. Amstutz Family Continued
VIII. Magdalena Amstutz was born on the old home-
stead near Kidron, February 11, 1865, and was
married to John Lehman, January 11, 1894 at
the Salem Church of which the bride was a
member. Mr. Lehman was a member of a
Mennonite church in the West where he had
been living for a number of years before, near
Moundridge, Kansas, and later in Oklahoma
with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Abraham Leh-
man. Mr. Lehman was born here, June 10,
1865. He was a carpenter and thresher. The
couple lived for a brief period on the farm
now occupied by Jacob Lehman near Kidron,
but later moved west to the Mennonite set-
tlement near Pandora, Ohio. Mrs. Lehman
died July 30, 1915. Mr. Lehman lives in New
144
London, Ohio, engaged as a carpenter. The
following children were born to the couple:
FIFTH GENERATION
1. Bess Lehman was born near Pandora, Ohio,
January 13, 1899. On November 26, 1919,
she married Melvin Steiner. The couple
are members of the First Missionary Church
at Fort Wayne, Indiana. Mr. Steiner is a
sales and advertising manager of the Kroger
grocery and bakery. Their address is 4123
Arlington Ave., Fort Wayne, Indiana. They
have one son.
SIXTH GENERATION
1) James Kent Steiner, born Aug. 26, 1925.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
2. Ida A. Lehman, Fort Wayne, Indiana, 4021
Fairfield Ave., was born near Pandora, Ohio,
February 24, 1901 and married to Carl D.
Light on December 25, 1922, Fort Wayne,
Indiana, by S. J. Grehbiel. Mr. Light is
engaged in real estate business. They be-
long to the English Lutheran Church at
Fort Wayne and live at 4021 Fairfield Ave.,
in that city. They have one child:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Olive Jean Light, born Sept. 23, 1923.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
3. Jesse H. Lehman was born in Allen County,
Ohio, November 16, 1903 and married to
145
Lillian E. Risser on July 7, 1923 by Rev.
Henry C. Jameson. They are members of
the Missionary Church, Pandora, Ohio. Mr.
Lehman operated a bakery at New London,
Ohio. Lillian was born April 27, 1905. The
couple has three children:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Lowell Eugene Lehman, born July 24,
1924, at Delta, Ohio.
2) Galen Dale Lehman, born December 3,
1926, at Plymouth, Ohio.
3) Muriel Magdalena Lehman, born August
14, 1932, at New London. Ohio.
FOURTH GENERATION CONTINUED
Daniel W. Amstutz Family
IX. Daniel W. Amtutz, third son of Christian and
Anna (Gerber) Amstutz, was born into the
family in August, 1866 and died January 14,
1923. He was married to Anna Moser,
daughter of Deacon David Moser, deceased,
January 24, 1889 by Rev. Joel Lehman of the
Salem Church of which the couple were mem-
bers. They lived on the farm now occupied by
Sol Miller east of Kidron for several years, and
later moved to a farm northwest of Orrville,
Ohio. They reared a family of seven children,
as follows:
FIFTH GENERATION
1. Nelson Amstutz, born November 30, 1889,
was married to Viola Schnitzer, 1916. Nel-
146
son is a farmer and livestock dealer. Their
address is Orrville, Ohio. Members of Re-
formed Church, Orrville. Four children
have been born to this union:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Elizabeth Amstutz, born April 4, 1917.
2) Harold Amstutz, born June 21, 1919.
3) Marjory Amstutz, born March 14, 1922.
4) Marilyn Amstutz, born December 18, 1923.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
2. Oscar Amstutz was born February 13, 1891,
Orrville, Ohio, and married to Ruth Keyser.
3. Herbert Amstutz, Orrville, Ohio, was born
October 24. 1892 and married to Ada Jack-
son, May 29, 1915. He is a successful farmer.
They have two children:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Dwight Amstutz, born November 3, 1919.
2) Richard Amstutz, born April 26, 1923.
FIFTH GENERATION
Dan. C. Amstutz Family Continued
4. Victor Amstutz, Orrville, Ohio, was born
April 16, 1894 and married to Feme Halter.
Reformed. One child has come into the home:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Kenneth Amstutz, born February 12, 1920.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
5. Ora Amstutz, Marshalville, Ohio, was born
September 17, 1895. and married to Harry
147
Graber, July 27, 1920 by Rev. E. Zaugg, Woos-
ter, Ohio. Christ Reformed Church. Occu-
pation, farmer and stock raiser. One child
has been born to them:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Harold Edward Graber, born February
8, 1926.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
6. Esther Amstutz, Orrville, Ohio, was born
May 24, 1898 and married to Lester Rehm,
June 27, 1919 at Wooster by Rev. E. E. Young.
Lester was born October 27, 1897 at Orrville,
Ohio, occupation a truck driver. They are
Reformed. Four children were born to them:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Russell Rehm, Orrville. Ohio, born Jan-
uary 27, 1920.
2) Donald Rehm, Orrville, Ohio, born De-
cember 6, 1921.
3) Lester Jr. Rehm, Orrville, Ohio, born Sep-
tember 29, 1923.
4) Norma Jean Rehm, Orrville, Ohio, born
April 26, 1928.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
7. Carl Amstutz, Mansfield. Ohio, 24 Dawson
Ave., was born August 29, 1900. He was
married to Aileen Pedicord at Beverly, Col-
orado, by Rev. W. W. Spear, of Olathe, Col-
orado. They are affiliated with the Lutheran
Church. Two children are born to them:
148
SIXTH GENERATION
1) James Carl Amstutz, born April 17, 1930.
2) Shirly Ann Amstutz, born Jan. 18, 1932.
FOURTH GENERATION
Chris. Amstutz Family Concluded
X. Peter C. Amstutz, youngest son of Christian and
Anna (Gerber) Amstutz, was born May 22,
1868 and married to Ida Chatelain of West Leb-
anon, Ohio, by Rev. R. M. Yoder of the Meth-
odist Church of Orrville. Ohio. The couple first
lived on the parental farm near Kidron but
later built themselves a beautiful home on the
south end of Main Street in Orrville, where
they have lived ever since. They have no
children.
THIRD GENERATION
SECTION II. BRANCH D
John M. Gerber, Sr., Continued
Descendants of John Baumgartner
Catharina, second daughter of John M. Gerber, Sr.,
family, was born November 23, 1833, and died No-
vember 7, 1867, aged only 34 years. On May 9, 1861,
she was married to John Baumgartner, being wed-
ded to him only six years. Mr. Baumgartner, was
born on Sonnenberg, Wayne County, Ohio, Septem-
ber 2, 1833. He died June 18, 1872, age 38 years, 9
months and 14 days. They spent their brief wedded
life on a Sonnenberg farm. They were both mem-
bers of the Sonnenberg Mennonite Church, having
149
Seen married by Bishop Ulrich Sommer. They had
five children born to them, viz: Caroline, Rosina,
Sarah, Daniel and Elizabeth, left orphans in early
childhood, and raised by their uncle Jacob Baum-
gartner.
FOURTH GENERATION
I. Caroline Baumgartner, born March 19, 1862, nev-
er married. She was a member of her parents'
church and died of apoplexy, February 4, 1922,
aged 66 years less 13 days on the farm of Eli
Basinger on Sonnenberg.
II. Rosina Baumgartner, daughter of John and Cath-
erina (Gerber) Baumgartner, was born on Son-
nenberg, Ohio, June 17, 1863 and died November
26, 1932, aged 69 years, and 5 months less one day.
She was married August 9, 1896 to Daniel Kirch-
hofer, also a native of Sonnenberg, born April 15,
1860. He was a grandson of one of the three
original pioneers of the Sonnenberg Settlement.
He attended the Halstead Kansas Academy for
a term. The couple spent their wedded life on the
farm at the foot of the so-called Devil's Hollow
where it spreads out into a beautiful grove of
sugar maple trees which Dan utilized for many
years in spring for reducing maple sap into de-
licious syrup. For over a generation Dan served
the community as a proficient itemizer of news to
the Dalton Gazette. He died June 13, 1934. Four
children cherish the memories of their departed
parents:
FIFTH GENERATION
1. Roy Kirchhofer, Dalton, Ohio, was born June
150
19, 1897. He was married to his second cousin,
Velma Baumgartner, of Berne, Indiana, Sep-
tember 3, 1933. He works at miscellaneous
jobs for farmers. Their address is Dalton.
Ohio, R. D., on Kidron Northern Road.
2. Stella Kirchhofer was born May 29, 1898. She
is single and at present living in Bluffton, Ohio,
with her sister, Dora.
3. Dora Kirchhofer was born July 12, 1899 and
has been an efficient cook for several years at
Ropp Hall, Bluffton College.
4. Delvin Kirchhofer, youngest son of the fam-
ily, was born May 31, 1901. He is a graduate
of Bluffton College and an efficient school
teacher, now near Bluffton, Ohio.
FOURTH GENERATION CONTINUED
III. Sarah Baumgartner, Dalton, Ohio, was born
October 12, 1864. She is a member of the Kidron
Mennonite Church and lives on the farm of her
brother-in-law, Elias Basinger in the Sonnen-
berg Settlement.
IV. Daniel W. Baumgartner, Versailles, Missouri,
was born June 30, 1866, Wayne Co., Ohio, and
married to Caroline Basinger near Versailles,
Missouri where they live on a farm. The mar-
riage took place September 24, 1891 and was
performed by their pastor, Rev. P. P. Lehman
of the Mennonite Church there. His wife was
born on Sonnenberg, October 2, 1865 whence
both moved to Missouri with their parents in
1868. Dan died December 24, 1937 of an opera-
151
tion. They have been made happy with the
advent of five children:
FIFTH GENERATION
1. Wade Dewey Baumgartner, Versailles, Mo.,
was born August 4, 1898 near Versailles, Mis-
souri. He was married to Pearl E. Hofstetter,
December 27, 1930 by their pastor, Rev. J. D.
Warkentin of the Mennonite Church there.
Pearl was born December 27, 1898. Mr. Baum-
gartner is a farmer in that community. They
have three children:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Elvena Ann Baumgartner, born December
3, 1933.
2) Ronald Galen Baumgartner, born Novem-
ber 15, 1935.
3) Weldon Keith Baumgartner, born Decem-
ber 29, 1936.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
2. Oliver Emmet Baumgartner, born October 21,
1900 at Versailles, Missouri, was married to
Elda Ruth Lehman of that community by
their pastor, Rev. P. P. Hilty, September 16,
1923. Elda was born July 26, 1900, Versailles,
Missouri. Both are members of the Mennon-
ite Church. They have two children. Farm-
ing is his occupation.
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Emond D. Baumgartner, born December
21, 1925.
152
2) Dorothy Lee Baumgartner, born Septem-
ber 3, 1928.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
3. Neal Washington Baumgartner was born Feb-
ruary 22, 1904, Versailles, Missouri. He is at
home engaged in farming.
4. Roy Adams Baumgartner, Bristol, Indiana,
was born June 19, 1906 at Versailles, Mis-
souri, is a farmer by vocation. He was mar-
ried to Mabel Detweiler, February 22, 1930
by Rev. Amos Gingerich. Both are Mennon-
ites. Mabel was born September 14, 1906. In
October, 1936, they moved from Versailles,
Missouri, to Bristol, Indiana. They have one
child:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Elenore Fay Baumgartner, born Septem-
ber 22, 1931.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
5. Alice Anna Baumgartner, Versailles, Missouri,
born April 30, 1908, was married December
24, 1935 to Earl Aeschbacher, Versailles, Mis-
souri, by Rev. Clyde Dirks. Earl was born
March 16, 1903. Farmer. They have one child:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Carolyn Sue Aeschbacher, born January
25, 1937.
FOURTH GENERATION
John Baumgartner Family Continued
V. Elizabeth Baumgartner, Dalton, Ohio, youngest
153
issue of John Baumgartner and Catherina (Ger-
ber), was born October 22, 1867 on Sonnenberg,
Ohio. She was married to Elias A. Basinger,
February 9, 1893 at Versailles, Missouri by Rev.
P. P. Lehman where Elias was born and raised
on the farm. They lived in that community on
the farm until 1911 when they moved to their
present home northeast of the Sonnenberg
Church. They are members of the Mennonite
faith as also their children. The family was
blessed with six children, as follows:
FIFTH GENERATION
Elias Basinger Family
1. Sarah Basinger was born October 12, 1893
and was married to Enos Steiner, born June
16, 1898, of this place, November 7, 1926 by
their pastor. Rev. C. N. Amstutz. They live
on the old Steiner homestead near the Boone
Schoolhouse. They have had five children:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Elias J. Steiner, born December 13, 1927
(died in infancy) .
2) Paul E. Steiner, born December 28, 1929.
3) Ruth E. Steiner, born August 6, 1932.
4) Eva Ella Steiner, born July 12, 1934 (died
February 17, 1935.)
5) Louis Steiner, born February 1, 1936.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
2. David W. Basinger, Dalton, Ohio, was born
April 25, 1896, Versailles, Missouri, and mar-
ried to Ella Zuercher, February 4, 1919 by
154
Rev. C. N. Amstutz of the Sonnenberg Church.
They live on farm adjoining his father's home-
stead on the east. They have six children,
as follows:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Elva A. Basinger, born May 24, 1921. Men-
nonite.
2) Dale C. Basinger, born June 29, 1922. Men-
nonite.
3) Lloyd A. Basinger, born November 3, 1924.
4) Clair L. Basinger, born May 3, 1928.
5) Oris L. Basinger, born May 5, 1930.
6) Lila Irene Basinger, born December 16,
1936.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
Mary A. Basinger was born April 11, 1899.
She is single, helping at home with the house
work.
Amos Basinger was born April 30, 1902. He
was married to Icie Steiner of Orrville, Ohio,
February 5, 1933 by Rev. O. N. Johns of Can-
ton, Ohio. Icie was born October 8, 1902. Both
are members of the Mennonite Church. Amos
is operating a farm southwest of Smithville,
Ohio. Three children have come into their
wedded life:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Doyle Edison Basinger, born January 4,
1934, Dalton, Ohio.
2) Clarence Elvin Basinger, born April 6, 1935,
Wooster, Ohio.
155
3) Willard Basinger, born May 13, 1938, Dal-
ton, Ohio.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
5. Walter E. Basinger, was born June 5, 1904.
He is single and helps his father with farming.
6. Bertha E. Basinger, born March 21, 1913, is
at home helping with the house work.
THIRD GENERATION
SECTION III. BRANCH D
John M. Gerber, Sr., Family Continued
Elizabeth Gerber, third daughter of John M. Ger-
ber, Sr., was born December 7, 1835. She was bap-
tized April 18, 1851 and admitted into the Sonnen-
berg church. She was married to Ferdinand Eisen-
hart, Vera Cruz, Indiana, June 9, 1879. No children
came into this wedlock, nevertheless she was a de-
vout Christian and on her deathbed (March 13, 1895)
she sang her favorite songs out of "Jubeltone" as
"Wie sie so sanft ruhn" and others. She died sud-
denly of heart attack. Her remains rest in the D.
Moser Cemetery north of Vera Cruz.
THIRD GENERATION
SECTION IV. BRANCH D
John M. Gerber, Sr., Descendants Continued
Peter M. Gerber and Descendants
Peter M. Gerber, first son of John M. Gerber, Sr.,
was born August 2, 1837. He was received into the
Sonnenberg Mennonite Church through baptism,
156
April 14, 1854. He was married to Elizabeth Moser,
daughter of the pioneer Peter Moscr. May 26, 1859
by Bishop Peter Schneck. She was born on the old
Moser homestead now occupied by Calvin Moscr, a
grandson of Peter, July 30, 1840.
The couple settled on a quarter section adjoining
his grandfather's farm on the north, now occupied
by his son Peter P. Gerber. Here they raised a fam-
ily of eleven children out of thirteen born to them,
two having died in infancy. Father Peter M. Gerber
had to taste pioneer farming all over again just like
his grandfather and father; cutting a big farm out
of the primeval forest. But he was of sturdy stock
like his forebears and lived till July 9, 1908, to the
ripe old age of 70 years, 11 months and 7 days. His
wife survived him one year, 9 months and 6 days,
to April 15, 1910 when she went home almost exactly
at the same age. The following were the children
that blessed their home: Rosena, Daniel, Levi, Anna,
Bertha, Lydia, Peter, Joel, Elias, Noah, Aaron,
Sarean, Emanuel.
FOURTH GENERATION
John Steiner Family
I. Rosina Gerber, first issue of Peter M. Gerber, was
born May 9, 1860 and died July 25, 1933, aged 73
years, 2 months and 16 days. She was married
to John Steiner, a son of the settlement, Novem-
ber 3, 1881 by Rev. Jacob Nussbaum of the Son-
nenberg Church of which both were life long mem-
bers. They went to live on a farm just north of
the Boone Schoolhouse in the heart of the settle-
ment. Here they reared a family of eight chil-
157
GENE •
'- •
OFL». .
dren, all of whom are living on farms in the set-
tlement and members of the Sonnenberg Church.
Father Steiner was born December 3, 1845 and
died July 1918. Children of this family are:
FIFTH GENERATION
1. Aaron Steiner, Dalton, Ohio, born September
13. 1882, was married to Sarah Amstutz, June
14, 1906 by Rev. Jacob Nussbaum. She is a
daughter of John S. Amstutz, deceased. The
family lives at the south edge of the settle-
ment two miles north of Mt. Eaton. They are
Mennonites. They have two children:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Alda E. Steiner was born June 26, 1909. She
was married to Noah D. Lehman March 5,
1938, by Rev. Louis Amstutz. They are
members of their parent church.
2) Levi A. Steiner, Dalton, Ohio, born August
18, 1910, was married to Orpha Geiser, Orr-
ville, Ohio, by Rev. Louis Amstutz, Septem-
ber 11, 1932. He is farming. Levi received
some secondary education at Harrisonburg,
Virginia. Three children have been born
to this union:
SEVENTH GENERATION
(1) Lois Fyrne Steiner, born October 28,
1933.
(2) Margaret May Steiner, born May 17,
1935.
(3) Palmer Lee Steiner, born May 30, 1936.
158
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
Amos Steiner, Dalton, Ohio, was born October
7, 1884 and was married September 29, 1910,
to Kate Neuensch wander (born October 13,
1882) a daughter of the deceased Abraham Neu-
enschwander formerly of Berne, Indiana. The
marriage was performed by her uncle and pas-
tor, Rev. Peter M. Neuenschwander of near
Berne. They settled on a farm near the Silver
Hill Schoolhouse north of Kidron. They have
seven children. They belong to the Sonnen-
berg Mennonite Church.
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Edna B. Steiner, born June 28, 1911, was
married to Albert Falb, February 4, 1933,
by their pastor, Rev. Louis Amstutz. They
live on a farm. Three children have been
born to them. (See under Albert Falb Fam-
ily record).
2) Willis Steiner, born September 11, 1913. He
is a farmer and married Celesta Nussbaum,
December 5, 1937.
3) Elda Steiner, born May 17, 1915. She was
married to Menno Neuenschwander of
Berne, Indiana, by Louis Amstutz, Novem-
ber 25, 1937.
4) Lydia Steiner, born March 12, 1917.
5) Lina Steiner, born August 1, 1919.
6) Edwin A. Steiner, born June 7, 1921.
7) Elmer B. Steiner, born December 27. 1925.
NOTE: All of the adults are members of the
Sonnenberg Church.
159
FIFTH GENERATION
J. Steiner Family Continued
Simon Steiner, R. 1., Dalton, Ohio, was born
March 25, 1887 and married Martha J. Amstutz,
December 10, 1910 by their pastor, Rev. Jacob
Nussbaum of the Sonnenberg Church. They
live on an airy little fruit farm north of his
parental home. Simon, beside a fruit farmer,
is also an all-around carpenter. . His wife,
daughter of John S. Amstutz, deceased, was
born July 27, 1890. They have two children:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Alvin Steiner, Orrville, Ohio, born Novem-
ber 24, 1911, Dalton, O., was married to Ellen
Geiser, September 29, 1934 by Rev. Louis
Amstutz, at Sonnenberg. Two children have
been born to them:
SEVENTH GENERATION
(1) Everett Marion Steiner was born No-
vember 24, 1935.
(2) Marlene Irma Steiner, was born Novem-
ber 16, 1936.
SIXTH GENERATION CONTINUED
2) Walter Paul Steiner was born November 22,
1924.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
Menno Steiner, Dalton, Ohio, was born April 7,
1889 and married to Sarah Nussbaum, daughter
of Isaac Nussbaum, May 22, 1913, by Rev. Jacob
Nussbaum. They operate a farm on the south
160
side of Sugar Creek Valley, east of Benville.
Members of the Sonnenberg Mennonite Church.
Sarah was born May 22, 1892, Berne, Indiana.
Children born to them are:
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
SIXTH GENERATION
Ella Steiner, born July 12, 1914.
Levina Steiner, born July 14, 1915.
Martha Steiner, born October 9, 1916.
Esther Steiner, born August 12, 1918.
Ida Steiner, born December 17, 1919.
Samuel Steiner, born March 3, 1921.
Lester Steiner, born July 5, 1922.
Allen Steiner, born February 9, 1924; died
in infancy.
Melvin Steiner, born September 29, 1925.
Annie Steiner, born May 2, 1927.
Rosina Steiner, born March 14, 1929.
Menno Steiner, born December 31, 1930.
Sarah Steiner, born March 1, 1933.
Aldis Steiner, born May 12, 1936.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
5. Lydia Steiner was born September 28, 1891 and
married to Jacob I. Nussbaum, son of Isaac
Nussbaum, September 1, 1911 by Rev. Jacob
Nussbaum of the Sonnenberg Church. They
live on the old Jacob Baumgartner farm just
south of Benville, Ohio. Address, Dalton, Ohio,
R. 1. Jacob was born June 1, 1886 near Berne,
Indiana. Seven children were born to them as
follows:
161
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Leo Nussbaum, born June 23, 1912, and was
married to Lorene Nussbaum, August 7, 1937.
2) Harvey J. Nussbaum, born August 29, 1914,
was married to Martha Amstutz, September
14, 1936, by Rev. Louis Amstutz. Martha
was born April 15, 1911. They have one
daughter.
SEVENTH GENERATION
(1) Ruth Hannah Nussbaum born Septem-
ber 17, 1937.
SIXTH GENERATION CONTINUED
3) Martha Nussbaum, born July 19, 1916. She
married Noah Geiser, August 7, 1937.
4) Caroline Nussbaum, born March 16, 1918.
5) Etta Nussbaum, born August 8, 1920.
6) Allen Nussbaum, born August 4, 1924.
7) Verda Nussbaum, born April 9, 1926.
FIFTH GENERATION
John Steiner Family Continued
6. John J. Steiner, Dalton, Ohio, was born April
24, 1893 and married to Eliza Neuenschwander
of Berne, Indiana, December 17, 1914 by Rev.
C. N. Amstutz, pastor of the Sonnenberg
Church. Eliza was born August 13, 1890. Mr.
Steiner is a farmer and thrasher. Children
born to them are:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Marvin Steiner, born November 13, 1915.
Member of Sonnenberg Church.
162
2) Cleophas Steiner, born April 14, 1917. Mem-
ber of the Sonnenberg Church.
3) Nathan Steiner, born January 27, 1919.
4) Irene Steiner, born July 26, 1921.
5) Leah Steiner)
6) Leo Steiner) twins, born April 15, 1923.
7) Truman Steiner, born December 14, 1925.
8) Carl Steiner, born January 18, 1927.
9) Lila Steiner, born November 15, 1930.
10) Tillman Steiner, born April 20, 1933.
11) Raymond Steiner, born May 2, 1935.
All were born in this community.
FIFTH GENERATION
John Steiner Family Concluded
7. Lizzie Steiner was born December 26, 1895. She
was married to Jacob P. Neuenschwander of
Berne. Indiana, February 17, 1938, where he
has a model farm.
8. Enos Steiner, Dalton, Ohio, was born June 16,
1898, was married to Sarah Basinger, November
7, 1926, a second cousin, by their pastor, Rev.
C. N. Amstutz. Enos farms the parental (Stein-
er) place. Sarah was born October 12, 1893 at
Versailles, Missouri. Both members of the
Sonnenberg Church. Five children have been
born to them. (See under Elias Basinger Fam-
ily).
FOURTH GENERATION
Peter M. Gerber, Sr., Family Continued
II. Daniel P. Gerber, oldest son and second issue of
Peter M. Gerber, was born January 14, 1862 and
163
married to Anna D. Bixler, oldest daughter of
David Bixler, September 19, 1889 by Rev. Jacob
Nussbaum, their pastor. They settled on a farm
in the Sugar Creek Valley on the east edge of
the Sonnenberg settlement. Anna was born Feb-
ruary 17, 1870. They are members at the Kidron
Mennonite Church. Eight children were born to
them, as follows:
FIFTH GENERATION
1. Aldis Gerber, Dalton, Ohio, was born June 24,
1890. He was married to Sarah A. Lehman,
daughter of Peter A. Lehman, deceased, Sep-
tember 15, 1917, by Rev. I. J. Buchwalter of
the Martin's Mennonite Church. Sarah born
November 27, 1896 near Apple Creek, Ohio.
This couple acquired the old J. W. Irvin farm,
southeast of Dalton. They have been blessed
with seven children:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Orus D. Gerber, born February 26, 1919.
Member of the Martin Mennonite Church.
2) Herman C. Gerber, born August 7, 1920.
Member of the Martin Mennonite Church.
3) Ella Barbara Gerber, born January 14, 1922.
Member of the Martin Mennonite Church.
4) Doyle M. Gerber, born February 18, 1926.
5) Norma F. Gerber, born February 7, 1928.
6) Harry D. Gerber, born June 4. 1931.
7) Anna Jean Gerber, born July 24, 1936.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
2. Grover C. Gerber, Orrville, Ohio, born January
164
11, 1893, was married to Fairy A. Amstutz,
June 14, 1919 by Rev. C. N. Amstutz, their
pastor. They have settled on a farm in the
western part of the settlement, after renting
a number of years. Both are members of The
Kidron Mennonite Church. They have four
children, as follows:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Dorothy Anna Gerber, born October 25,
1920. Member of Kidron Mennonite Church.
2) Ellis Jay Gerber, born July 19, 1923. Mem-
ber of K. M. Church.
3) Ruth Elizabeth Gerber, born February 1,
1926.
4) Ceila Barbara Gerber, born April 9, 1928.
FIFTH GENERATION
Dan P, Gerber Family Continued
Earl E. Gerber, Dalton, Ohio, was born Decem-
ber 27, 1894, and married to Susanna Schu-
macher, daughter of Adam Schumacher, de-
ceased, June 23, 1918 by Rev. C. N. Amstutz.
Susanna was born August 26, 1895, Orrville, O.
They live on a farm northeast of Dalton. The
parents are members of the Kidron Mennonite
Church and the children follow their example.
Seven children have been born to them:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Ora Dale Gerber, born October 5, 1919, died
five days later.
2) Grace Marie Gerber, born November 17,
165
1920, Dalton Ohio. Member of same de-
nomination.
3) Paul Ellis Gerber, born September 17, 1922,
Dalton Ohio. Member of the same denomi-
nation.
4) Frank Eugene Gerber, born July 18, 1924.
5) Earl Gerber Jr., born May 30, 1931, died De-
cember 18, 1931.
6) June Elizabeth Gerber, born July 9, 1934.
7) Doris Ann Gerber, born January 6, 1936.
8) Sarah Eline Gerber, born November 9, 1937,
died November 15, 1937. First person that
was buried in the new Kidron Mennonite
Cemetery.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
4. Oscar Gerber, Dalton, Ohio, was born April 8,
1896 and married to Elvina Hofstetter, daugh-
ter of David Hofstetter of Benville, Ohio, June
9, 1921, by Rev. C. N. Amstutz. The couple is
engaged in farming his father-in-law's farm.
They are members of the Kidron Mennonite
Church. One child has come into this union:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Clifford Lee Gerber, born May 29, 1922.
Member of the parent church.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
5. Clara Gerber, Apple Creek, Ohio, was born
August 12, 1897 and married to Will Geiser,
January 5. 1919 by Rev. C. N. Amstutz, their
pastor. The couple lives on a farm one mile
166
northeast of Kidron. Eight children have h
the fruits of this union. They are members of
the Sonnenberg Church.
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Delpha Grace Geiser, born October 22, 1919.
2) Homer Edison Geiser, born Nov. 6, 1922.
3) Stella Mareen Geiser, born Feb. 19, 1924.
4) Mabel Fern Geiser, born September 2, 1925.
5) Edith Lorene Geiser, born December 18,
1926.
6) Wilson Chester Geiser, born March 22, 1928.
7) Leonard James Geiser, born January 28,
1931.
8) Ernest William Geiser, born August 18, 1933.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
Ada Gerber, born June 27, 1899, was married
to Elmer Nussbaum, Apple Creek, Ohio, May
2, 1918, by Rev. E. E. Zechiel of the Apple
Creek Reformed Church, where the couple are
members. Elmer was born August 14, 1892
near Apple Creek, Ohio. They live on a farm
west of Kidron. They have four children:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Opal Clara Nussbaum, born October 26,
1918. Reformed Church.
2) Harlan Dennis Nussbaum, born March 6.
1924. Reformed Church.
3) Ray Dean Nussbaum, born March 5, 1928.
Reformed Church.
4) Bonnie Lou Nussbaum, born April 13, 1937.
167
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
7. Tamar Gerber was born December 29, 1901
and was married to Menno Schumacher. Mr.
Schumacher died April 1, 1929, the victim of
pneumonia. He was a mechanic at the W. &
L. E. shop at Brewster. The young widow is a
member of the Kidron Mennonite Church. She
is left with three children, to wit:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Urie J. Schumacher, born June 12, 1921.
Member of Kidron Mennonite Church.
2) Mildred F. Schumacher, born November 18,
1922. Member of Kidron Mennonite Church.
3) Don B. Schumacher, born February 9, 1926.
FIFTH GENERATION
Dan P. Gerber Family Concluded
8. Daniel D. Gerber was born May 2, 1909. He
was married to Mary Ada Houser, June 30,
1932, by Rev. J. E. Brown. Mary Ada was
born March 23, 1914. The family has been
broken by the wife deserting it. Two children
have been born to them:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Joyce Eileen Gerber, born July 20, 1933.
2) Ruby Ann Gerber, born December 11, 1934.
FOURTH GENERATION
Peter M. Gerber Family Continued
Levi P. Gerber Family
III. Levi P. Gerber, third child (second son) of Peter
M. Gerber, was born May 23, 1863 and married,
168
first, to Rosina J. Moser, daughter of Deacon
Jacob Moser, January 17, 1889 by their pastor,
Rev. Jacob Nussbaum of the Sonnenberg Church.
Rosina was born October 10, 1869 on the old
1
Bfr* '
H^fc-' Jfk
■n *.
gjf > ^B
M« jfl
ftS^«v!jp«i» -• ]
■V *■* * fl
Six Sons of Mr. and Mrs. Peter M. Gerber, Dalton, Ohio.
All living, age range from 60 to 76 years, making a total
of the six sons 403 years.
First row, read left to right: Daniel, Levi, Peter.
Second row, left to right: Joel, Elias, compiler of this
geneology, Noah.
Jacob Moser homestead, at present owned by
her brother, David J. Moser on the hill east of
Sugar Creek. Mr. Gerber built himself a new
homestead on the heights east of the Dalton-
Mt. Eaton road where he is living with his son
Ivan and family. Rosina died
To this union were born six children, namely:
169
FIFTH GENERATION
Bertha Gerber, oldest daughter of Levi P.
Gerber, was born February 8, 1890 and mar-
ried, January 27, 1917, to Alvin Sommer, son
of Dan A. Sommer, Kidron, Ohio. The wed-
ding was solemnized by Rev. Ira J. Buchwal-
ter, Dalton, Ohio. Alvin is a master mechanic,
having established the first garage in Kidron.
At present he confines himself to the sales-
manship of automobiles and a Hardware store
and automobile accessories. Alvin was born
January 2. 1888. They are members of the
Salem Mennonite Church. Four children have
been born to this union, as follows:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Elvera June Sommer, born June 1, 1919.
Elvera is a graduate of Dalton High School,
a competent pianist and violinist, in short,
a promising musician. Member of parent
church.
2) Pearl Lavonne Sommer, born December
8, 1924.
3) Claren Daniel Sommer, born March 4, 1926.
4) Mary Rose Sommer, born August 19, 1931.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
Celesta Gerber, Ft. Wayne, Indiana, was born
March 9, 1892, and married to Tobias Sprung-
er of Berne, Indiana, June 27, 1915 by Rev.
P. R. Schroeder, pastor of the Berne Men-
nonite Church. Tobias was born February
21, 1887. The couple went to home making
170
at 1304 McCulloch St., Fort Wayne, Indiana
where Tobias is still following his trade as
carpenter. Two children brought sunshine
into their home:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Oral A. Sprunger, born August 1, 1917,
works in Groths Dept. Store.
2) Kenneth L. Sprunger, born Oct. 25, 1927.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
3. Elma Gerber was born September 27, 1894.
Single. She is an efficient domestic helper.
4. Noah Gerber was born October 9, died the
next day.
5. Ivan Gerber, only living son of Levi P. Ger-
ber, was born September 22, 1899 and mar-
ried Anna P. Lehman, daughter of Peter A.
Lehman of this settlement, September 16, 1922
by Rev. C. N. Amstutz their pastor, but have
since identified their membership with the
Salem Church. Anna was born November
17, 1898. Ivan at present operates his father's
farm. Six children have been born to them,
as follows:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Margaret June Gerber, born June 10, 1924.
2) Clinton James Gerber, born Oct. 17, 1925.
3) Byron Charles Gerber, born July 9, 1927.
4) Hazel Marie Gerber, born April 7, 1929.
5) Wallace Wade Gerber, born July 1, 1931.
6) Clark Luther Gerber, born March 23, 1933.
171
FIFTH GENERATION
Levi P. Gerber Family Concluded
6. Estella Gerber, Apple Creek, Ohio, was born
April 21, 1904, and married to Ivan Nussbaum
June 27. 1936 by Rev. A. R. Keiser at their
home, which they purchased before their mar-
riage. Ivan was born August 14, 1908. They
are members of the Salem Mennonite Church.
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Colleen Janice Nussbaum, born July 27,
1937.
Levi married his second wife, Elizabeth Som-
mer, May 26, 1910. She died August 1, 1921.
FOURTH GENERATION
Peter M. Gerber Family Continued
IV. Anna Gerber, second daughter of Peter M. Ger-
ber, was born July 1, 1865, and married to Sol-
omon Gerber, Versailles, Missouri August 3, 1889.
They were members of the Mennonite Church
at the latter place. The marriage was performed
by the bride's pastor, Rev. C. N. Amstutz of the
Sonnenberg Church. The couple, after a few
years of farming in Missouri, moved to this
county and state settling on a farm near the
Pleasant View Mennonite Church, northeast of
Dalton. Anna succumbed to a lingering illness
with diabetes. May 27, 1921, at the age of 55
years, 10 months and 26 days. The couple left
no children of their own but adopted two, named
Onie and Elizabeth.
V. Bertha Gerber was born July 13, 1867, and mar-
172
ried to John D. Bixler, February 28, 1891 by their
pastor, Rev. Jacob Nussbaum. One son was born
to this union (See below) after which she died
(February 26, 1898) aged 30 years, 6 months and
13 days.
FIFTH GENERATION
1. Allen Bixler, Kidron, Ohio, only son of Bertha
(Gerber) and John D. Bixler, was born Feb-
ruary 19, 1898 and married to Ellen Sommir.
daughter of Jacob and Anna Sommer, June
28, 1925, by their pastor, Rev. C. N. Amstutz.
Mr. Bixler is engaged with his brother-in-law
in the latter's warehouse in Kidron. Ellen
was born September 16, 1900. Allen was or-
dained minister by lot at the Kidron Men-
nonite Church, November 15, 1937. The fol-
lowing day he took part in a funeral service
at that place, and the following Sunday
preached his first sermon. At the same date
of ordination Reuben Hofstetter was also or-
dained deacon by lot. Three children were
born to Allen and Ellen:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Robert Stanley Bixler, born November 10,
1926.
2) James Leslie Bixler)
3) John Wesley Bixler) twins, born April 8,
1930.
FOURTH GENERATION
Peter M. Gerber Family Continued
VI. Lydia Gerber, Dalton, Ohio, third daughter of
173
Peter M. Gerber, was born April 12, 1869, and
was reared into the membership of the Mennon-
ite Church. She was married to Jacob P. Ger-
ber, November 9, 1899 by Rev. Jacob Nussbaum
and lives on a farm just southwest of the original
Michael Gerber homestead. NOTE: Jacob is a
distant relative of his wife, his ancestry also
being located on the "Habbach" Langnau, Switz-
erland. They reared a family of six children,
one daughter and five sons, as follows:
FIFTH GENERATION
Jacob P. Gerber Family
1. Delia E. Gerber, Dalton, Ohio, R. 1, was born
Sylvan Nathan
Oswin Gilbert Delvin
June 28, 1901, and was married to Albert J.
Amstutz, September 14, 1922 by Rev. C. N.
Amstutz. Both are members of the Sonnen-
174
berg Church. They live on a farm in the
settlement. Six children have been born to
this couple, as follows:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Agnes Amstutz, born February 11, 1924.
2) Dennis Amstutz, born October 6, 1925, died
January 25, 1931.
3) Myron Amstutz, born October 7, 1927.
4) Aquilla Amstutz, born November 1, 1931.
5) Galen Amstutz, born October 16, 1933.
6) Doyle E. Amstutz, born February 10, 1937.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
2. Nathan Gerber, R. 1, Dalton, Ohio, oldest son
of Jacob and Lydia Gerber, was born January
7, 1903 and is identified as member of the Men-
nonite Church. He was married to Elvina
Amstutz, September 23, 1928 by Rev. C. N.
Amstutz at Sonnenberg Church. Elvina was
born September 5, 1905, Orrville, Ohio. Nath-
an succeeded his father on the home place,
living with his parents. They have two chil-
dren:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) David Earl Gerber, born December 23, 1936.
2) James Lloyd Gerber, born August 8, 1938.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
3. Sylvan Gerber, Massillon, Ohio, 418 12th St.
N. W., second son of Jacob P. Gerber was born
June 17, 1904. He was married to Sylvia Price
of Massillon, Ohio, December 14, 1929. She
175
was born October 12, 1911. Mr. Gerber is a
steel worker. They are Protestants. Five
children have joined the family, namely:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Robert Gerber, born July 24, 1930.
2) Betty Jean Gerber, born Sept. 20, 1932.
3) Donald Gerber, born February 22, 1935.
4) Shirley Lee Gerber, born Nov. 5, 1936.
5) Twila Gerber, born January 1, 1938. Re-
ceived prize as first baby born in Massillon
in the year 1938.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
4. Gilbert C. Gerber, Dalton, Ohio, was born
March 9, 1907. Laborer. Member of the Men-
nonite Church.
5. Oswin G. Gerber, graduate of Goshen College,
Goshen, Indiana, was born August 7, 1908. He
was married, June 7, 1934, to Miss Luella Am-
stutz. daughter of Aaron Amstutz, R. 1, Apple
Creek, Ohio, by Rev. Louis Amstutz, Dalton,
Ohio. Luella was born March 12, 1912. The
couple moved here in June. Oswin will teach.
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Mary Catherine, born July 22, 1938.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
6. Delvin E. Gerber, youngest son of Jacob P.
Gerber, was born December 11, 1910. Mar-
ried to Esther Sommer June 19, 1938, by Rev.
Allen Bixler. First marriage performed by
Rev. Bixler.
176
FOURTH GENERATION
Peter M. Gerber Family Continued
VII. Peter P. Gerber, R. 1, Dalton, Ohio, third son of
Peter M. Gerber, was born April 25, 1871. He
joined the Sonnenberg Church in his youth, but
in later years worships with the Martin's Men-
nonite Church. He was married to Anna J.
Hofstetter, November 26, 1896 by Rev. Jacob
Nussbaum. They live on the parental home-
stead just north of the ancestral farm. Anna
was born October 17, 1872 near Dalton, Ohio.
Thirteen children were born into this family,
viz:
FIFTH GENERATION
Peter P. Gerber Family
1. Helena Gerber, Apple Creek, Ohio, born Oc-
tober 23, 1897, was married to John F. Geiser,
Apple Creek, Ohio, November 24, 1918, by
Rev. C. N. Amstutz. John was born April
15, 1896, and is a son of Frederick and Eliza-
beth Geiser. Member of the Sonnenberg
Mennonite Church and a farmer. The fol-
lowing children were born to them:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Irene E. Geiser, born August 17, 1919.
Member of Mennonite Church.
2) Edna A. Geiser, born October 16, 1920.
Member of Mennonite Church.
3) Elmer S. Geiser, born July 10, 1922.
4) Verda M. Geiser, born August 30, 1925.
177
5) Ada M. Geiser, born December 16, 1929.
6) Willis E. Geiser, born August 23, 1932.
7) John F. Geiser, born May 6, 1936.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
Elam Gerber, Kidron, Ohio, oldest son of
Peter P. Gerber, was born October 17, 1898,
and was married to Anna D. Amstutz, daugh-
ter of Dan S. Amstutz, August 20, 1921 by
Rev. C. N. Amstutz. Mr. Gerber is part own-
er with Willis Sommer of the I. G. A. Store
at Kidron. The family worships with the
Salem Mennonite Church. Anna was born
March 3, 1897. Four children have added
sunshine to their home, namely:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Kenneth Wayne Gerber, born April 16,
1924.
2) Olin Junior Gerber, born November 24,
1926.
3) Stanley Earl Gerber, born April 26, 1929.
4) Rose Marie Gerber, born June 25, 1937.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
Alvin Gerber, 1712 E. 85 St., Cleveland, Ohio,
second son of Peter P. Gerber, was born Jan-
uary 5, 1900 and married to Sylvia, daughter
of Peter P. Hofstetter January 12, 1924, by
Rev. A. R. Keiser of the Salem Mennonite
Church. Sylvia was born May 27, 1901. They
worship at the First Christian Church of
Cleveland. They have two children:
178
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Curtis D. Gerber, born April 4, 1928, at
Canton, Ohio.
2) Shirley Mae Gerber, born May 24, 1933,
Westminster, Maryland.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
4. Wilson Gerber, third son of P. P. Gerber, was
born March 10, 1901. He is a member of the
Sonnenberg Church. He is single and works
on the farm.
5. Etta Gerber, Apple Creek, Ohio, second
daughter of P. P. Gerber, was born April 13,
1903. She is a member of the Sonnenberg
Church. She was married to David Geiser,
September 27, 1923, by Rev. C. N. Amstutz.
The couple lives on a farm west of Kidron.
Mr. Geiser was born October 23, 1901. They
have nine children:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Clair L. Geiser, born February 6, 1925.
2) Anna E. Geiser, born April 24, 1926.
3) Lloyd D. Geiser, born August 31, 1927.
4) Verna R. Geiser, born October 28, 1928.
5) Daniel D. Geiser, born February 28, 1930,
died in infancy.
6) Roy D. Geiser, born March 22, 1931.
7) Dennis D. Geiser, born March 15, 1933.
8) Lavina E. Geiser, born April 15, 1935.
9) Ella Marie Geiser, born Nov. 14, 1936.
179
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
6. Ella Gerber, born June 13, 1904, died Septem-
ber, 1904.
7. Orpha Gerber, Dalton, Ohio, third living
daughter of P. P. Gerber, was born February
13, 1906. She joined the Mennonite Church
in her youth and was married to Allen P.
Geiser, August 26, 1928 by Rev. C. N. Am-
stutz. They live on a farm between Mt.
Eaton and Kidron. Allen was born April
19, 1907. They have six children.
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Amos Allan Geiser, born November 21,
1929.
2) Esther Alice Geiser, born June 11, 1931.
3) Gilbert A. Geiser, born September 23,
1932.
4) Sylvester A. Geiser, born January 21,
1934.
5) Nathan A. Geiser, born August 12, 1935.
6) Peter A. Geiser, born March 6, 1937.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
8. Carl Gerber, fourth son of P. P. Gerber, was
born March 5, 1907. He is a member of the
Mennonite Church. Single. He is a carpen-
ter and mechanic by trade.
9. Viola Gerber, born July 10, 1909, died an in-
fant.
10. Verda Gerber, born October 6, 1910, is single
and a member of the Kidron Mennonite
Church.
180
11. Roy Gerber, fifth son of P. P. Gerber, \
born March 25, 1912. He is single and a
member of the Kidron Mennonite Church.
He works on the farm.
12. Ira Gerber was born June 12, 1913. He is a
member of the local church. Married to
Vera Liechty, Berne, Indiana, July 3, 1938,
by Rev. Andrew Lozier. The couple resides
at Berne.
13. Leonard Gerber, born April 16, 1915, is a
member of the same church, single, and at
home.
FOURTH GENERATION
Peter M. Gerber Family Continued
VIII. Joel Gerber, fourth son of Peter M. Gerber,
was born July 27, 1873. He early joined his
parental church, being baptized at the Sonnen-
berg Church, March 21, 1893. He was married
to Sarah Amstutz, eldest daughter of Benjamin
Amstutz of Benville, March 22, 1900 by Rev.
Joel Lehman, pastor of the Salem Mennonite
Church. The couple went to live in one of the
Benville houses and engaged in farming. On
September 23. 1931, his wife was taken from his
side by the grim reaper death and he now lives
with his son George. Two children were born
to this union:
FIFTH GENERATION
1. George Gerber, R. 1, Dalton, Ohio, was born
January 3, 1901. He is a member of the
Salem Mennonite Church. He married Sarah
181
D. Amstutz, February 3, 1921 by Rev. C. N.
Amstutz. Sarah was born May 1, 1899, near
Mt. Eaton. He is a wholesale butcher and
farmer, employing several men in his slaugh-
ter house in Benville and supplies city meat
markets with meat. The couple cherish
the presence in their family of two children:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Cletus Glenn Gerber, born September 23,
1921.
2) Vernon Lee Gerber, born February 13,
1923.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
Verena Mae Gerber, Dalton, Ohio, only
daughter of Joel and Sarah (Amstutz) Ger-
ber, came into their home as a fresh ray of
sunshine, October 18, 1909. On December
25, 1927 she was united in wedlock to her
former teacher, Clinton Glenn Sprunger by
Rev. A. R. Keiser. They are both highly
esteemed members of the Salem Mennonite
Church where Mr. Sprunger is much appre-
ciated as chorister. Mr. Sprunger is one of
the most highly appreciated public school
teachers of Sugar Creek Township. Two
children have come to bless their home:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Robert Clinton, born December 8, 1928,
Dalton, Ohio.
2) George Curtis, born March 6, 1934, Dal-
ton, Ohio.
182
FOURTH GENERATION CONTINUED
Elias P. Gerbcr Family
IX. Elias P. Gerber, fifth son of Peter M. Gerber,
was born July 17, 1875. Like the rest of the
family he was reared into the church of his
ancestors, member of the Mennonite Church. He
was married, first, to Sarah Sommer, daughter
of Peter Sommer, Sr., January 18, 1900 by Rev.
Jacob Nussbaum. His wife was born August 9,
1875. After the birth of her sixth child she was
taken from his side by death, March 16, 1914.
Mr. Gerber was married to his present wife,
Fanny V. Lehman, October 3, 1915. She was
born July 13, 1882.
E. P., as he is mostly called, the compiler of
this genealogy, has operated a successful busi-
ness in Lumber, Hardware and Planing & Saw
Mill for nearly 40 years. A pioneer business
man in Kidron, he built his Planing Mill in 1903
and his present hardware store in 1918.
FIFTH GENERATION
a) First Marriage
1. Dora Elsie Gerber, eldest daughter of the
family, was born July 25, 1903. She is a mem-
ber of the Mt. Eaton Reformed Church. She
was married to Albert D. Amstutz, October
9, 1937, by Rev. S. J. T. Flohr. Albert's occu-
pation is threshing.
2. Delvin Ray Gerber, born April 9, 1905, died
May 9, 1909 of inflammation of the bowels.
3. Edwin Ira Gerber, oldest living son, was born
183
November 10, 1907. He was baptized at the
Sonnenberg Church, but later transferred his
membership to the Salem Church. He is em-
ployed in his father's business as clerk.
He was married November 10, 1935, to Alice
Leola Bucher, of Bluffton, Ohio, by the bride's
pastor, Rev. P. A. Kliewer of the Ebenezer
Mennonite Church. Alice was born January
29, 1904.
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Ralph Dean, born September 12, 1938.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
4. Lila Marie Gerber, second daughter of E. P.
Gerber, was born February 15, 1909 and is
a member of the Kidron Mennonite Church.
After a thorough bookkeeping education she
worked for her father a number of years in
this capacity until she was married to Otto
E. Gerber, carpenter, February 19, 1935 by
O. N. Johns. They live in Kidron. Otto was
born October 20, 1905. He is employed as
manager of the planing mill, for his father-in-
law.
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Harris Edwin was born February 10, 1936,
prematurely, and died the same day.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
5. Oren Emanuel Gerber, third son of E. P. Ger-
ber, was born August 27, 1911. He is a mem-
184
ber of the parent's church and works in his
father's business.
6. Anna Elizabeth Gerber, third daughter and
youngest child by E. P. Gerber's first mar-
riage, was born May 19, 1913. She holds mem-
bership in the Mennonite Church and is en-
gaged in housework.
b) Second Marriage
1. Clayton Atlee, born June 3, 1917, died July
2, 1924, of Bright's Disease.
2. Wayne Van Buren Gerber, born November
24, 1919, died March 14, 1920.
3. Melva Mae Gerber, born May 18, 1921. Mem-
ber of the parent church.
4. Glenford Nevin Gerber, born January 18, 1926.
FOURTH GENERATION CONTINUED
Noah Gerber Family
X. Noah P. Gerber, Pandora, Ohio, was born Octo-
ber 8, 1877, Dalton, Ohio. He was married to
Caroline Schumacher, December 28, 1900 by Rev.
John Moser, pastor of the Bluffton and Pandora
Mennonite Churches. Caroline was born August
31, 1877. Mennonites. The following are their
children:
FIFTH GENERATION
1. Melvena Marie Gerber, was born December
14, 1901, at Dalton, Ohio. She graduated
from Bluffton College. Does domestic work
at home. Mennonite.
2. Myron Quentin Gerber, Perrysburg, Ohio,
318 E. Indiana St., was born June 23, 1903. He
185
studied at Bluffton College and is Music Su-
pervisor. He was married, August 7, 1933,
to Bernita L. Lance by Rev. Jones Montgom-
ery, at St. Louis, Mo. Myron is a Mennonite
and his wife Presbyterian. Bernita was born
August 24, 1905 at Weston. Ohio. Have one
child:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Myron Quentin Jr., born November 5, 1935.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
3. Millen Victor Gerber, Toledo, Ohio, 1723 Wat-
kins Drive, was born June 1, 1905, and studied
at Bluffton College. He was married to
Evelyn Whitis of Continental, Ohio, April 25,
1931, by Rev. P. E. Whitmer, pastor of the
Grace Church, Pandora, Ohio. Evelyn was
born May 29, 1908 member of United Breth-
ren. He is a shipping clerk. One child.
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Joan Lee Gerber was born October 6, 1932.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
4. Vilas Roy Gerber)
5. Vernon Ray Gerber) twins, were born April
23, 1912.
Vilas, graduate of Pandora High School, and
Bluffton College, teaches music.
Vernon, graduate of Pandora High School and
Bluffton College. Specializes in Art.
6. Leland Wayne Gerber was born June 2, 1915.
He graduated from high school and is appren-
186
tice in photography. The entire family are
members of the Mennonite Church.
FOURTH GENERATION CONTINUED
XL Aaron Gerber, born October 11, 1879, died Au-
gust 12, 1881 of whooping cough.
XII. Sarah Ann Gerber was born July 19, 1882, and
died June 8, 1921. She was married to William
Hofstetter, R. 1, Dalton, Ohio, January 18, 1902
who is a farmer, by Rev. Jacob Nussbaum at
Sonnenberg. William was born September 17,
1878. The entire family are members of the
Mennonite Church. The following children are
living:
FIFTH GENERATION
1. Martha Hofstetter was born March 13, 1903
near Dalton, Ohio, and married to Nathan
Boegli (born October 21, 1903), Wooster, O.,
December 25, 1928, by Rev. Moses Hurst.
They have five children. They are farmers.
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Maynard Leman Boegli, born May 7, 1930.
2) Loren Wayne Boegli, born February 28,
1932.
3) Doris Irene Boegli, born September 10,
1933.
4) Vernice Roy Boegli, born February 14,
1935.
5) Marlyn Ruth Boegli, born February 14,
1938.
187
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
2. Millard Hofstetter, Dalton, Ohio, was born
September 4, 1905. He is a mechanic and
painter.
Eight Sons of Mr. and Mrs. Will Hofstetter, Dalton. Ohio.
First row, read left to right: Oscar, Clarence, Edwin,
Millard.
Second row, left to right: Roy, Lloyd, Leland, Raymond.
3. Oscar Hofstetter, born February 7, 1907.
Painter.
4. Joel Hofstetter, born May 14, 1908, died May
29, 1908.
5. Clarence Hofstetter, born October 13, 1909.
6. Roy Hofstetter, born February 26, 1911.
7. Edwin Hofstetter, born May 29, 1912.
8. Lola Irene Hofstetter, born July 4. 1913.
9. Lloyd Hofstetter, born March 26, 1915.
10. Raymond Hofstetter, born October 21, 1917.
11. Leland Hofstetter, born September 30, 1919.
Address of all the sons is R. 1, Dalton, Ohio,
at the father's home.
188
FOURTH GENERATION
P. M. Gerber Family Concluded
XIII. Emanuel Gerber, youngest son of Peter M.
Gerber, was born August 2, 1884 and died
December 16, 1889.
THIRD GENERATION
SECTION V. BRANCH D
John M. Gerber, Sr., Descendants Continued
Christian M. Gerber, second son and fifth issue of
John M. Gerber, Sr., was born December 7, 1839, on
the ancestral farm, homestead of Michael Gerber
on Sonnenberg. He was married to Mariann Gerber
by Bishop Peter Schneck, September 27, 1860. His
bride was born May 9, 1837 and died December 3,
1922, aged 85 years, 6 months and 24 days. The cou-
ple established their home still owned by a son, John,
southwest of Dalton, Ohio. Christian died Septem-
ber 28, 1917, aged 77 years. The following were
their descendants: Fanny, Lina, Elizabeth, John.
FOURTH GENERATION
Christian Gerber Family
I. Fanny Gerber, Dalton, Ohio, born February 14,
1862, was married to Jacob Amstutz, farmer, De-
cember 1, 1883 by Rev. Jacob Nussbaum. The
groom was a native of Switzerland, born April
4, 1856, from whence he emigrated with his par-
ents and family, John Amstutz, in his young man-
hood. The couple first lived on several farms, till
they finally settled on their present farm south-
189
east of the Sonnenberg Church, where Mr. Am-
stutz still lives. They reared a family of nine
children. Mrs. Amstutz died May 14, 1928, aged
66 years and 3 months. The following are their
children:
FIFTH GENERATION
Jacob Amstutz Family
1. Simon Amstutz, born January 1, 1885 near Dal-
ton, Ohio, died December 11, 1891 of scrofula.
2. Rhoda Amstutz, born October 8, 1886, near
Dalton, Ohio, was married to John C. Hofstet-
ter of the Sonnenberg settlement, December
13, 1906 by their Bishop, Jacob Nussbaum, of
the Sonnenberg Mennonite Church. Rhoda
died June 18, 1918 of ovarian tumor. No chil-
dren were born to this union.
3. Lina Amstutz, born March 20, 1888 near
Marshallville, Ohio, was married to Samuel E.
Nussbaum, R. D. 1, Apple Creek, Ohio, Octo-
ber 14, 1909, by Bishop Jacob Nussbaum of
the Sonnenberg Mennonite Church of which
both were members. Samuel Nussbaum was
born near Berne, Indiana, December 31, 1884.
They live on their farm south of Kidron. The
following children were born to them:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Esther Nussbaum. Dalton, Ohio, born Au-
gust 9, 1910, was married to Amos Steffen,
September 25, 1932 by Rev. Louis Amstutz,
their pastor. Amos, born June 18, 1911.
They lived on the old Steffen farm but have
190
recently bought the Dan S. Amstutz farm,
southeast of Kidron. Two children have
been born to them:
SEVENTH GENERATION
(1) Harlan Steffen, born February 23, 1934,
Dalton, Ohio.
(2) Virgene Steffen, born June 14, 1935.
SIXTH GENERATION CONTINUED
2) Harvey Nussbaum, Mt. Eaton, Ohio, was
born April 2, 1912. He is manager of the
feed mill at Mt. Eaton. He was married to
Evelyn Amstutz, daughter of Amos B. Am-
stutz, Benville. The couple are second
cousins. Both are members of the Men-
nonite Church. Have one child.
(Further Entry under Amos B. Amstutz
Family) .
3) George Nussbaum was born June 2, 1914.
He is a member of the Kidron Mennonite
Church, and is employed at the Mt. Eaton
chopping mill. Married to Rhoda Gerber.
(See Phil. Gerber Family record below).
4) Edna Nussbaum was born January 23, 1917.
Member of the Sonnenberg Church. Mar-
ried to Paul Hilty August 7, 1938 by Rev.
Louis Amstutz.
5) Pauline Nussbaum was born November 17,
1918, member of the parent church.
6) William Nussbaum was born July 15, 1920,
member of the parent church.
191
7) Verena Nussbaum was born January 19,
1923.
8) Delia Nussbaum was born October 29, 1926.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
4. Louis Amstutz, Apple Creek, Ohio, R. 1, oldest
living son of Jacob Amstutz was born near
Marshallville, Ohio, March 30, 1889. He was
reared into his parents' church, Sonnenberg, of
which at present he is pastor. He was mar-
ried, October 10, 1912, to Elda, daughter of
John Lehman, deceased, north of Mt. Eaton,
by his pastor, C. N. Amstutz. After a number
of years at operating his father's farm he rent-
ed the C. A. Sommer farm, and after the lat-
ter's demise bought it as his present home. The
following children have come to their home:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Victor E. Amstutz, parental address, was
born April 15, 1915. He was married August
8, 1935 to Sylvia Amstutz, daughter of Amos
B. Amstutz, of Benville. She was born July
8, 1915 and is her husband's second cousin,
having one great-grandmother and one
great-grandfather in common. Mr. Amstutz
is a laborer. Both are members of the
Kidron Mennonite Church. One child was
born to them:
SEVENTH GENERATION
(1) Sarah Louise Amstutz, born April 24,
1938.
192
SIXTH GENERATION CONTINUED
2) Idella M. Amstutz, born November 4, 1918.
Member of the Sonnenberg Church.
3) Elsie M. Amstutz, born November 22, 1926.
4) Dorothy A. Amstutz, born May 5, 1932.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
Emma Amstutz was born near Orrville, Ohio,
August 13, 1893. She was an invalid and died
December 31, 1928. She was a member of the
Sonnenberg Church.
Enos Amstutz was born near Orrville, Ohio,
February 4, 1896 and died at the untimely age
of 18 years, June 21, 1914. He too was an in-
valid.
Edna Malinda Amstutz, Apple Creek, Ohio,
R. 1, was born May 10, 1898 and reared into
membership of the Sonnenberg Church. She
was married to Aaron J. Lehman, March 6, 1919
by their Bishop C. N. Amstutz of the Sonnen-
berg Church. They are engaged in farming
south of Kidron. Aaron, son of John P. Leh-
man near the Sonnenberg Church, was born
April 19, 1896, near Mt. Eaton, Ohio. They
have five children, as follows:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Vernon Lehman, born February 6, 1921.
2) Nathan Lehman, born August 11, 1925.
3) Martha Lehman, born May 8, 1927.
4) Freeman Lehman, born May 28, 1932.
5) Louis Lehman, born November 7, 1933.
193
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
8. Daniel F. Amstutz, born near Orrville, Ohio,
February 10, 1900, is a farmer and member of
the Sonnenberg Church. He was married to
Eva Gerber, June 24, 1920 by C. N. Amstutz.
She was born July 21, 1900, the daughter of
Jacob M. Gerber. They live on his father's
farm which he operates. Seven children have
been born to them, namely:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Lester Amstutz born February 2, 1922.
2) Marvin Amstutz, born March 3, 1924.
3) Ruth Amstutz, born December 22, 1927.
4) Earl Amstutz, born April 30, 1929.
5) Paul Amstutz, born June 1, 1931.
6) John Amstutz, born November 24, 1932.
7) David Amstutz, born June 29, 1934.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
9. Albert Amstutz, youngest son of Jacob Am-
stutz, was born near Orrville, Ohio, July 1, 1901,
and married to Delia Gerber, daughter of Jacob
P. Gerber, September 14, 1922 by C. N. Amstutz.
The couple are both members of the local
church and engaged as farmers in the com-
munity. Mrs. Amstutz was born June 28, 1901.
They have six children, to wit: See under
Jac. P. Gerber Family.
FOURTH GENERATION
Chr. Gerber Family Continued
II. Lina Gerber was born on the Christian Gerber
homestead southwest of Dalton,, March 4, 1864,
194
and died of rupture, June 22, 1922, aged 58 years,
3 months and 15 days. A member of the Son-
enberg Church, she was married by her pastor,
Jacob Nussbaum, December 22, 1900, to Ben
Welty, south of Kidron. Her husband followed
her in death, December 23, 1929. They had no
children.
III. Elizabeth Gerber, of Sonnenberg Mennonite
Church, Dalton, Ohio, R. 1, born February 23,
1870, was married to Simeon Lehman, February
10, 1910 by their pastor, Jacob Nussbaum. Eliza-
beth was Simeon's second wife. Two children
were born to them. One died at day of birth
and the other at the age of three. The first was
born December 25, 1910, and the second, Monroe,
born April 2, 1912 and died April, 1915.
John C. Gerber Family
IV. John C. Gerber, Dalton, Ohio, R. 1, only son of
Christian Gerber, was born February 5, 1875.
He stayed on the parental homestead and mar-
ried Magdalena Bixler, December 1, 1904, by
Rev. Jacob Nussbaum, their pastor. The bride,
a daughter of Daniel Bixler, a neighbor to his
father, was born June 11, 1872, and died March
2, 1930. Three children were born to them:
FIFTH GENERATION
1. Annie Ruth Gerber was born May 3, 1907.
When grown up, she identified herself with
the Salem Mennonite Church. She was mar-
ried to Harry Gregory, June 24, 1933. by A. R.
Keiser, Salem Church, with which the groom
also identified himself. Mr. Gregory is a miller
195
by profession having been employed for many
years in the Dalton Mill. The couple now
operates the "Book Restaurant" at Dalton.
2. Esther Marie Gerber, born May 9, 1909, is a
member of the Martin Mennonite Church and
is engaged in domestic work.
3. Daniel Trvin, only son of John C. Gerber, was
born September 1, 1910. He is at home with
his father and is identified with the Martin
Church. He married Bonnie Jean Payne Au-
gust 17, 1937. Her birthday is May 14, 1913.
John M. Gerber, Jr., and Wife
196
THIRD GENERATION
SECTION VI. BRANCH D
John M. Gerber, Sr., Descendants Continued
John M. Gerber, Jr., third son of John M. Gerber,
Sr., was born June 25, 1842. baptized into the Son-
nenberg Church, April 22, 1859, by Peter Schneck
and married, March 21, 1868, to Anna Geiger, Put-
nam County, Ohio, where the couple went to live.
His wife was born September 20, 1847. John lived
to the age of 80 years, dying in Oregon, October 19,
1922. His wife died January 10, 1911, also in Oregon.
After their children had all been born in Ohio, Mr.
Gerber got the "Western" fever and moved to Kansas
in the year 1885 and from thence the following year
to Pratum, Oregon. Their children were the fol-
lowing:
FOURTH GENERATION
I. Noah J. Gerber. Snohomish, Washington, R. 2,
was born near Blurfton, Ohio, January 7, 1869
and married to Mary B. Bernhard, May 14, 1893,
by Rev. John Rich of the Mennonite Church at
Pratum, Oregon, with which the couple was
identified. His wife was born April 24, 1870, at
Untervatz, Canton Graubiinden, Switzerland.
They lived on the farm near Pratum, Oregon,
for a number of years, but in 1901 moved to Sno-
homish, Washington, and took up homestead. Mr.
Gerber has a small farm and is a carpenter by
trade. Their children are:
197
FIFTH GENERATION
1. Ralph E. Gerber, St. Mary's, Idaho, was born
March 31, 1895. Unmarried. He is a carpen-
ten. Mennonite.
2. Lloyd M. Gerber, born July 18, 1897, is un-
married and a barber by trade, address, 1160
Wilson Way, Stockton, California. Mennonite.
3. Bessie C. Gerber, Monroe, Washington, born
March 24, 1900, at Pratum, Ore., was married to
Leonard A. Schrag, May 19, 1918, by Rev. D. B.
Hess of the Mennonite Church. Leonard was
born, January 19, 1898, at Eugene, Oregon. Mr.
Schrag operates a service station. One child
is reported of them:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Marvin C. Schrag was born February 28,
1933. Died March 6, 1938.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
4. Erna V. Gerber, Monroe, Washington, born
March 31, 1902, was married to Edward J.
Schrag, June 6, 1920, by Rev. John Frantz,
Mennonite Church, their denomination. Mr.
Schrag manages a gas and oil station. One
child reported:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Duane W. Schrag was born April 27, 1925,
died June 23, 1936.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
5. Clara D. Gerber, Snohomish, Washington, born
October 27, 1905 at Monroe, Washington, and
198
married to Edward Stucky, member of the M.
E. Church. His occupation is barber. Two
children blessed the home.
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Jean D. Stucky, born October 22, 1931.
2) Carroll Ann Stucky, born April 5, 1937.
FOURTH GENERATION
John M. Gerber, Jr., Family Continued
II. Mary Gerber was born near Bluffton, Ohio, Jan-
uary 11, 1871. She accompanied her parents to
Pratum, Oregon; there she was married to Chris-
tian Gerber. of Langnau, Switzerland, April
23, 1890 by Rev. John Rich. They were mem-
bers of the Mennonite Faith. Chris died June 3,
1906 and Mary died on April 19, 1908. Five chil-
dren were born to this union:
FIFTH GENERATION
1. Olive Gerber, born April 8, 1892 near Silver-
ton, Oregon, was married to Albert Eggiman,
November 1, 1916, by Rev. W. M. Bushy. Al-
bert was born June 30, 1883, in the Emmental,
Bern, Switzerland.
2. Alma Gerber, born May 20, 1893, near Silver-
ton, Oregon, was married to Ferdinand Zuerch-
er, April 4, 1907, by Rev. Avison at Salem,
Oregon. He was born at Blanchard, Hancock
County, Ohio, October 4, 1887 and died Sep-
tember 27, 1928. Three children were born to
them.
199
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Jean Zuercher, born February 3, 1919.
2) Fred Jack Zuercher, born July 21, 1922.
3) Beyeren Arthur Zuercher, born April 1,
1928.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
3. Lewis Gerber, born August 8, 1894.
4. Eldon Gerber, born December 7, 1897.
5. Lillie Gerber, born August 19, 1901.
FOURTH GENERATION
John M. Gerber, Jr., Family Continued
III. Paulena Gerber, born February 22, 1873 near
Bluffton, Ohio, was married to Daniel Steiner,
Silverton, Oregon, April 9, 1891, by Rev. John
Rich of the Mennonite Church, where they are
members. Daniel was born January 28, 1865 at
Bluffton, Ohio. The family lives on a farm.
Five children were born to them:
FIFTH GENERATION
Daniel Steiner Family
1. Elmer Allen Steiner, Pioneer, Ohio, was born
at Pratum, Oregon, October 1, 1893. He was
married to Lula Belle Zehr, February 14, 1926,
by the bride's father, Levi Zehr, at Pioneer,
Ohio, pastor of the Defenseless Mennonite
Church. The Zehr's are natives of Missouri.
The parents of the bride had moved from
Centralia, Missouri to Pioneer, Ohio, where
the couple is still residing (address, R. 1, Pio-
neer, Ohio). They are engaged in farming.
They have three children:
200
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201
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Oliver James Steiner, born June 28, 1927.
2) Richard Lee Steiner, born Dec. 20, 1928.
3) Doris Elaine Steiner, born June 9, 1936.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
Lillie Ella Steiner, 1245 N. 16th St., Salem,
Oregon, was born November 25, 1896 and mar-
ried to John E. Harder, factory worker, Sep-
tember 6, 1923, by Rev. John M. Franz, of the
Mennonite Church of Pratum, Oregon, where
the couple are members. John was born Sep-
tember 8, 1892 at Mt. Lake, Minnesota. They
have one child:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Marie Harder, born January 12, 1931.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
Florence Delia Steiner, Dallas, Oregon, was
born April 5, 1899, and died August 21, 1922,
in the Salem Deaconess Hospital. She was
married to Peter P. Hiebert. July 10, 1921,
by Rev. Sam Baumgartner, of the Mennonite
Church, of which both were members. One
child:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Beulah Bernice Hiebert, born August 20,
1922, Salem, Oregon.
FIFTH GENERATION
Dan Steiner Family Continued
John D. Steiner. Route 2, Silverton, Oregon,
202
was born December 29, 1903. He was mar
ried to Anna Hiebert, July 24, 1932, by Rev.
J. M. Franz, Dallas, Oregon. Anna Hiebert
was born January 23, 1903 at Mt. Lake,
Minnesota. They are members of the Men-
nonite Faith. No children have been reported.
Anna's parents emigrated from Hamburg,
Russia in 1876, because they were German
and the 100 year lease was just about expired,
and as they were opposed to military training,
left Russia. The Russian government wanted
their land back, which they had promised to
them when they had left Germany 100 years
ago. Those that stayed, God only knows their
where abouts today.
5. Pearl Viola Steiner, was born September 27,
1910. She is unmarried and lives with her
parents. She is a member of the Mennonite
Church.
FOURTH GENERATION
J. M. Gerber, Jr., Family Concluded
IV. David Gerber, second son of John M. Gerber,
Jr., was born near Bluffton, Ohio, October 4,
1874. He was never married and died Feb-
ruary 1, 1901, at the age of 26 years.
V. Lovina Gerber, 1011 Oak St., Salem, Oregon,
third daughter of John M. Gerber, Jr., was
born April 11, 1879 near Bluffton, Ohio. She
was married to Frank B. Wedel, Salem, Ore-
gon, September 17, 1914, by Rev. S. Baum-
gartner, Pratum, Oregon. Wedel was born
April 4, 1858. Mr. Wedel was founder and
203
promoter of the Deaconess Hospital. He died
November 9, 1931, leaving his widow without
children. He was a native of South Russia.
Mennonites.
VI. Sarah Gerber, Pratum, Oregon, fourth daugh-
ter of John M. Gerber, Jr., born near Bluffton,
Ohio, February 13, 1881, was married to Peter
C. Hofstetter, a native of Sonnenberg, Ohio,
February 12, 1913, by their pastor, Rev. S. S.
Baumgartner, Pratum, Oregon. Peter is a
carpenter and farmer by trade. Peter was
born April 30, 1876, Canton Bern, Switzerland,
came to America in his youth. They had
one daughter, Lily Ann, who died in infancy,
January 3, 1914. Mennonites at Pratum, Ore.
VII. Menas D. Gerber, Pandora, Ohio, youngest son
of John M. Gerber, Jr., born near Bluffton,
Ohio, January 5, 1883, was married to Eliza-
beth Hilty, June 8, 1911, by Rev. S. S. Baum-
gartner of the Pratum, Oregon, Mennonite
Church. His wife was born April 8, 1882. The
couple settled on a ranch in Wyoming, where
they lived four years and then moved to their
native German Mennonite Settlement near
Pandora, Ohio, where they are farming. They
have two children:
FIFTH GENERATION
1. Mary Ellen Gerber, born April 21, 1912, at
Pratum, Oregon, has been preparing for
teaching at Bowling Green College. She is
a member of the Mennonite Church at Pan-
dora, Ohio.
204
2. Martha Pauline Gerber, born July 27, 1917,
at Bordeaux, Wyoming, is in High School
at Pandora. Member of the Mennonite
Church.
THIRD GENERATION
SECTION VII. BRANCH D
John M. Gerber, Sr., Descendants Continued
Barbara Gerber, fourth daughter of John M. Ger-
ber, Sr., was born May 14. 1844 and baptized by
Bishop U. Sommer, Sonnenberg Church, March 29,
1861. She was married to David Nussbaum by Rev.
John Moser of the Bluffton-Pandora Mennonite
Churches. She died August 11, 1921. Mr. Nussbaum,
born November 29, 1839, died October 30, 1902. Both
were members of the Ebenezer Mennonite Church
west of Bluffton, Ohio. Three children were born to
them:
FOURTH GENERATION
David Nussbaum Family
I. Noah Nussbaum, born July 26, 1882, died two
days later.
II. Jacob Nussbaum, Bluffton, Ohio, born July 29,
1884, was married first, to Lena Both, February
18, 1916. She died September 30, 1917. One
child is reported of this union. Jacob Nussbaum
married his second wife, Nettie Blakely, Novem-
ber 7, 1920. Of this union four children were
born:
205
FIFTH GENERATION (FIRST MARRIAGE)
1. Donald David Nussbaum, born March 8, 1917.
Second Marriage
2. Melvin Ray Nussbaum, born April 25, 1921.
3. Edith Marcella Nussbaum, born September
26, 1922.
4. Burdella June Nussbaum, born June 23, 1925.
5. Francis Carlton Nussbaum, born December 6,
1929.
FOURTH GENERATION CONTINUED
III. Lavina Nussbaum, Bluffton, Ohio, was born May
5, 1886 and married to Amos Basinger, Pandora,
Ohio, December 5, 1908, by Rev. J. B. Baer, Bluff-
ton, Ohio. Amos was born November 27, 1884.
They farm the parental Nussbaum place. Mem-
bers of the Ebenezer Mennonite Church. Three
children have been born to them:
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
1. Francis Millard Basinger was born at Bluff-
ton, Ohio, November 10, 1910. He was mar-
ried to Minnie May Sprunger of Berne, In-
diana, April 16, 1933 by Rev. Tropf of the
Missionary Church of Berne, Indiana. Two
children born to this union:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Died as infant, May 21, 1934.
2) Doris Jean, born August 7, 1936.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
2. Jonathan David Basinger was born July 12,
1914, died two days old.
206
3. Milo Edison Basinger, born May 22, 1916, died
March 11, 1931.
THIRD GENERATION
SECTION VIII. BRANCH D
John M. Gerber, Sr., Descendants
Fanny Gerber, fifth daughter of John M. Gerber.
Sr., was born May 9, 1846. Baptized by Bishop
Christian Sommer of the Sonnenberg Church, March
25, 1864, and married to Christian Baumgartner, Vera
Cruz, Indiana, February 1, 1869. Sometime alter
the beginnings of the Village of Berne, Indiana
(started about 1871) the family settled in that town,
probably about 1881), where Mr. Baumgartner was
employed for a number of years in a sawmill. Later
he worked at odd jobs. Nine children were born
into that family, of which four died in infancy. Eli,
Emma L., Calvin C, Levina, Sarah Ann, Adula C,
Edwin C, George C, Lenhart.
FOURTH GENERATION
C. C. Baumgartner Family
I. Eli Baumgartner, born near Dalton, Ohio, De-
cember 11, 1869, moved to Vera Cruz and later
to Berne, Indiana, with his parents where he
grew to manhood. He became a member of the
Berne Mennonite Church in his youth and as
soon as he was grown up learned the carpenter
trade which he has followed ever since. He
was married to Louise Lehman by Rev. S. F.
Sprunger of the Mennonite Church at Berne,
207
December 23, 1894. His wife was born February
28, 1873. They have been living in Berne ever
since their marriage. Four children have been
born to them, namely:
FIFTH GENERATION
1. Leo Baumgartner, born April 19, 1896, died
the same day.
2. Ira Baumgartner, Sylvania, Ohio, was born
July 20, 1897. He was married to Mable
Smith, Findlay, Ohio, August 29, 1923 by Rev.
G. N. Lilly of Findlay, Ohio, Congregational
Church. Mr. Baumgartner, a graduate of
Bluffton College, is superintendent of schools
at Sylvania, Ohio. His wife was born Sep-
tember 20, 1900. Two children have brought
sunshine into their home:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Richard Baumgartner, born July 6, 1924 at
Rawson, Ohio.
2) Elizabeth Ann Baumgartner, born March
30, 1926, at Dola, Ohio.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
3. Ora Baumgartner, Berne, Indiana, was born
February 19, 1900. She was married to Edwin
Nussbaum, November 6, 1921, by Rev. P. R.
Schroeder, pastor of the Berne Mennonite
Church. Mr. Nussbaum was born May 2, 1899.
He is an upholsterer by trade. Are members
of the Mennonite Church at Berne. Three
children have been born to the couple:
208
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Kenyon Clair Nussbaum, born September
3, 1922.
2) Jean Marie Nussbaum, born January 18,
1925.
3) Howard Dale Nussbaum. born March 24,
1928.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
4. Elva Baumgartner, Los Angeles, California,
8015 Stanford Ave., born November 10, 1906, at
Berne, Indiana, was married to Earl Winter-
egg, August 25, 1928, by Rev. C. H. Sauer-
wein, Reformed Church at Berne. He was
born January 28, 1908. He is engaged as
truck driver. Both are members of the Men-
nonite Church at Berne, Indiana. Two chil-
dren have been reported of this union:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Jeann May Winteregg, born April 28, 1930
at Van Nuys, California.
2) Tommy Bruce Winteregg, born April 4,
1935, at Hollywood, California.
FOURTH GENERATION
C. C. Baumgartner Family Continued
II. Emma Louise Baumgartner, oldest daughter of
Christian and Fanny (Gerber) Baumgartner,
was born in Wayne County, Ohio, July 10, 1871.
She lived to the age of 17 years, 8 months and
22. days and died at her home at Berne, Indiana,
April 2, 1889 of tuberculosis. She had been a
209
member of the Mennonite Church at Berne.
III. Calvin C. Baumgartner, second son of Christian
Baumgartner, was born at Vera Cruz, Indiana,
March 2, 1874, and died August 27, 1874.
IV. Levina Baumgartner, second daughter of Chris-
tian Baumgartner, was born at Vera Cruz, Indi-
ana, January 8, 1876. In her early youth she
went to Wayne County, Ohio, to live with rela-
tives until she was married to Elias Amstutz,
October 25, 1900, (Elias was born December
7, 1875) by Rev Jacob Nussbaum and joined
her husband's church at Sonnenberg. Their
home address is Apple Creek, Ohio, R. 1. To
them were born six children, as follows:
FIFTH GENERATION
Elias Amstutz Family
1. Menno S. Amstutz, Beloit, Ohio, R. D. 1, was
born April 7, 1904. He is an electrician. He
was married to Beulah M. Stutzman. March 2,
1929, by Rev. O. N. Johns at Canton, Ohio.
The couple belongs to the Mennonite Church.
Two children have been born to them up to
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Marilyn Gloria Amstutz, born January 18,
1930, at Cleveland, Ohio.
2) Joann Delight Amstutz, born October 28,
1935 at Beloit, Ohio.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
2. Ellis E. Amstutz, Wooster, Ohio, 237y 2 E. Lar-
well Street, was born near Apple Creek, Ohio,
September 13, 1906. He is a dairyman. He
210
was married to Mildred Lucille Howman, June
9. 1937 at Ontario, Ohio, by Rev. R. A. Hallat.
Mildred was born July 12, 1915.
3. Sarean Amstutz, Apple Creek, Ohio, born Feb-
ruary 10, 1908, was married to Willis Lehman,
November 23, 1929 by their pastor, Rev. C. N.
Amstutz. Willis was born November 8, 1907.
They are members of the Sonnenberg Church.
Farmer. Four children have been reported
of this union:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Donavan Dale Lehman, born September 3,
1931.
2) James Orten Lehman, born December 22,
1932.
3) Kenneth William Lehman, born October 13,
1934.
4) Chester Lee Lehman, born August 13, 1936.
FIFTH GENERATION
4. George C. Amstutz was born July 28, 1910. He
is a school teacher. He was married to Miss
Frieda Amstutz, daughter of Mr. and Mrs.
P. J. Amstutz, June 30, 1935 by Rev. O. N.
Johns of Canton, Ohio. They are both Men-
nonites and have had advanced school priv-
ileges. Frieda was born October 10, 1911, Dal-
ton, Ohio. They live at Kidron.
5. Leo L. Amstutz, Apple Creek, Ohio, was born
May 16, 1912. He is employed in a dairy at
Wadsworth, Ohio. He holds membership in
the Kidron Mennonite Church and was mar-
211
ried to Rosella Lehman, October 16, 1937, by
A. J. Steiner. Rosella was born March 6, 1916.
6. Elva Lucy Amstutz, Reading, Pa., was born
March 8, 1914. She is also a member of the
Sonnenberg Mennonite Church. She is doing
housework in Reading, Pennsylvania.
FOURTH GENERATION
C. C. Baumgartner Family Continued
V. Sarah Ann Baumgartner, born September 19,
1877, died after a few days.
VI. Aldula C. Baumgartner, born at Vera Cruz, In-
diana, April 17, 1880, died July 12 of the same
year.
VII. Edwin C. Baumgartner was born July 1, 1881,
at Berne, Indiana, and is a member of the Mis-
sionary Church at Fort Wayne, Indiana. He
was first married to Delila Sprunger, January
4, 1906, by Rev. J. W. Kliewer, then pastor of
the Mennonite Church at Berne. He moved to
Fort Wayne, where he has been contractor and
builder. His first wife, born October 9, 1884,
died June 24, 1924, at Fort Wayne. On May 22,
1926 he entered a second matrimonial career
with Mary A. Diller, of Pandora, Ohio, by Rev.
E. J. Neuenschwander The following children
have been born to Edwin:
FIFTH GENERATION
(a) First Marriage.
1. Florine Verena Baumgartner, born August
29, 1907, at Berne, Indiana, died the next day.
212
2. Pauline Regina Baumgartner, Evansville, In-
diana, 1435 S. Emmeth Ave, born July 20,
1908, at Berne, Indiana, graduated at the In-
diana University and taught high school at
Paragon, Indiana. She is a member of the
First Missionary Church, Fort Wayne, Indi-
ana. She was married May 14, 1933, to Joe
H. McCool of Evansville, Indiana, by Rev.
S. A. Witmer. He studies medicine at In-
dianapolis. One child has been born:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Martha Lou McCool, born July 28, 1936,
Evansville, Indiana.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
3. Clara Ida Baumgartner, Fort Wayne, Indi-
diana, 1616 Kentucky Ave., born October 15,
1910, at Berne, Indiana, is a high school grad-
uate and is a stenographer at Fort Wayne.
Member of the Missionary Church. Married
Lewis Milas Reiff on June 15, 1935 at Tipton,
Indiana. Have one child.
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Charles Stephen Reiff, born September
11, 1936, Fort Wayne, Indiana.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
4. Esther Louise Baumgartner, born at Fort
Wayne, January 29, 1915, is a member of the
Missionary Church, high school graduate in
1933, and employed in Cleveland, Ohio.
5. Martha Jane Baumgartner was born June 2,
213
1917, at Fort Wayne, Indiana. Member of
of the Missionary Church and high school
student.
(b) Second Marriage
6. Dorothy Elizabeth Baumgartner, born De-
cember 24, 1927.
FOURTH GENERATION
C. C. Baumgartner Family Continued
VIII. George Baumgartner, 3108 Fairfield Ave., Fort
Wayne, Indiana, youngest living son of Chris-
tian Baumgartner of Berne, Indiana, was born
October 21, 1882. When grown up he became
a plasterer and for a while he did stucco
plastering business on a large scale in and
around Berne. He was married to Lydia Burk-
halter, Berne, Indiana, January 1, 1911, by Rev.
J. W. Kliewer. Several years later he moved
to Fort Wayne, where he continued his plast-
ering trade. As members of the Mennonite
Church at Berne, they later identified them-
selves with the Missionary Church at Fort
Wayne. They have three children, viz:
FIFTH GENERATION
1. Vera Marie Baumgartner, born March 18,
1912, is a member of the Ft. Wayne Mission-
ary Church. She attends Wheaton College,
Wheaton, Illinois.
2. Menno Gordon Baumgartner, 1303 Scott
Ave., Fort Wayne, Indiana, was born Jan-
uary 13, 1914, at Berne. Member of the
Missionary Church. Married to Treva Lu-
214
cile Gerber, June 16, 1935 by Rev. S. A.
Witmer. Treva Lucile, born April 6, 1915,
Pandora, Ohio.
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Ruth Ellen Baumgartncr, born Septem-
ber 26, 1938.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
3. Adah Verena Baumgartner, born June 28,
1918, is also a member of the Missionary
Church at Fort Wayne.
FOURTH GENERATION
C. C. Baumgartner Family Concluded
IX. Lenhard Baumgartner, last child of Christian
and Fanny (Gerber) Baumgartner, was born
at Berne, Indiana. November 26, 1887 and died
January 23, 1888.
THIRD GENERATION
SECTION IX. BRANCH D
John M. Gerber, Sr., Descendants Continued
Magdalena Gerber was born April 7, 1848, the sixth
daughter of John M. Gerber, Sr. She was baptized
March 30, 1866 into the Sonnenberg Mennonite
Church. She was married to Ephraim Baumgartner.
February 1, 1872 by Rev. C. Sommer. Ephraim was
was born near Linn Grove or Vera Cruz, Indiana,
July 25, 1846. He was a carpenter by trade. The
union was blessed with nine children, as follows:
Aldina, Noah O., Hiram H.. Manasseh M., Cora E.,
Amanda S., Leonora M., Lillie O., Orva M.
215
FOURTH GENERATION
Ephraim Baumgartner Family
I. Aldina A. Baumgartner was born in Adams
County, Indiana, January 26, 1874, and died
February 17, 1918, of tuberculosis. She was mar-
ried to Gideon Sprunger of Berne, Indiana, No-
vember 15, 1896, by Rev. S. F. Sprunger of the
Mennonite Church at Berne where both were
active members. This couple lived on the farm,
mostly in Michigan. The groom was born Sep-
tember 6, 1866. son of the aged Rev. Christian
Sprunger, one of the founders of the Berne Con-
gregation. Their children numbered four:
FIFTH GENERATION
1. Gertrude A. Sprunger. Shelby, Michigan, was
born July 11, 1898. She is a member of the
Missionary Church and was married to Clare
L. Smith, July 5, 1924, by Rev. Wm. Egle. Mr.
Smith owns and operates a saw mill, Mfg.
Crates and Boxes. They have five children.
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Lawrence E. Smith, born April 5, 1926.
2) Donna Jean Smith, born Nov. 17, 1927.
3) Warren Bradley Smith, born Aug. 19, 1930.
4) Kathleen Smith, born September 2, 1933.
5) Mary Alice Smith, born September 9, 1934.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
2. Magdalena M. Sprunger, born October 16,
1900, at Berne, Indiana, was married to Harv-
ey Hirschy, June 27, 1926 by Rev. Solomon
216
Klopfenstine, Missionary Church. Mr. Hirschy
is occupied in a furniture factory. Their ad-
dress is Plainwell, Michigan. They arc mem-
bers of the Calvary Church. One child is
reported.
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Geraldine Mae Hirschy, born June 1, 1927.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
3. Esther E. Sprunger, born June 19. 1902 at
Berne, Indiana, was married to Preston H.
Zehr, April 19, 1924, by Rev. Wm. Egle, pastor
of the Missionary Church. Mr. Zehr is en-
gaged in a printshop at Berne. He was born
July 10, 1903 near Geneva, Indiana. One child
reported.
SIXTH GENERATION
1) John Zehr, born March 31, 1928 at Berne,
Indiana.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
4. Palmer C. Sprunger, Geneva, Indiana, was
born February 26, 1905 at Berne, Indiana, and
married to Marcella Gephart, December 26,
1931, by Rev. Gilbert Eddy, of the Missionary
Church, where they were members. Marcella
was born September 4, 1908, Berne, Indiana,
and died November 17, 1937. He works in a
furniture factory.
FOURTH GENERATION
II. Noah Oswin Baumgartner was born near Berne,
Indiana, December 4, 1875, and married to Meta
Steiner, January 28, 1902 by their pastor, Rev.
5. F. Sprunger of the Berne Mennonite Church.
217
They are Methodists. Meta was born January
27, 1882. The family lives at Berne, where Mr.
Baumgartner is engaged in carpenter work.
Their children are:
FIFTH GENERATION
1. Inah Baumgartner was born December 25,
1902, and married to Rev. T. J. Cotton, Jan-
uary, 1924, by Rev. J. C. White, Fort Wayne,
Indiana. He is a Methodist minister at Wal-
ton, Indiana, and was born at Ossian, Sep-
tember 8, 1899. They are blessed with two
children. Inah had 4 grandparents and 4
great-grandparents living at her birth.
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Warren Todd Cotton, born September 16.
1928.
2) Forest Fremont Cotton, born December 14,
1935.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
2. Estella Baumgartner was born August 12, 1905
at Berne, Indiana, and married to Ercil Stew-
ard, Butler, Indiana, April 8, 1933, by Rev. T.
J. Cotton, Fort Wayne, Indiana. Ercil was
born October 17, 1911, at Spencerville, Indi-
ana. They are Methodists.
3. Milford Baumgartner was born January 19,
1911. He is single and belongs to the Meth-
odist Church. He is attending College in
Manistee, Michigan.
4. Robert Baumgartner, born July 17, 1918, died
the same day.
218
FOURTH GENERATION CONTINUED
III. Hiram Henry Baumgartner, Berne, Indiana, was
born September 19, 1877 and died January 2."..
1928. He was married to Amelia (Molln)
Sprunger, daughter of A. A. Sprungcr, October
4, 1903, by their pastor, Rev. Joel Lehman of
the Berne Mennonite Church. The couple estab-
lished a home just east of the A. A. Sprunger
homestead and went to farming. Mr. Baum-
gartner, a little while before his death, was
elected deacon of the Mennonite Church at
Berne. He died of a lingering nervous illness.
Their children are:
FIFTH GENERATION
1. Velma Aganetha Baumgartner, born April 4,
1906. (See under Roy Kirchhofer) .
2. Willard Luther Baumgartner, oldest son of
Hiram Baumgartner, was born July 21, 1908
near Berne, Indiana, and married to Margaret
Rawley, east of Berne, April 1, 1934 by Rev.
C. H. Suckau, the couple's pastor, of the Berne
Mennonite Church. Willard is a truck driver
and the couple lives in Berne. Two children
have been born to them.
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Grace Amelia Baumgartner, born January
9, 1935.
2) Margaret Alene Baumgartner, born May
7, 1936.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
3. Rhoda Magdalena Baumgartner, second
219
daughter of Hiram Baumgartner, was born
July 1, 1911. She is a member of the Berne
Mennonite Church and employed at the over-
all factory.
4. Esther Lucille Baumgartner, born April 17,
1913. a member of the Mennonite Church, is
married to Lester Gerber. (See under Rufus
Gerber record).
5. Lawrence Leslie Baumgartner was born
March 24, 1916. He is a member of the Men-
nonite Church and farms at home.
6. Ella Jane Baumgartner was born October 8,
1918. She is a member of the Mennonite
Church and works at home.
FOURTH GENERATION
Eph. Baumgartner Family Continued
IV. Menas Milo Baumgartner, Restaurateur at
Berne, Indiana, is the third son of Ephraim
Baumgartner, born September 25, 1879. Besides
the public schools he has studied vocal music at
Bluffton and Oberlin, Ohio, and is one of the
accomplished leaders in choral and other vocal
music in Berne. He was married, August 20,
1918, to Rose M. Lehman who is one of Berne's
most accomplished instrumental musicians. She
has for many years served the Berne Mennonite
Church as accompanist, both on the pipe organ
and on the piano. Mr. and Mrs. Baumgartner
operate a first class restaurant in Berne. They
have no children.
V. Cora Amelia Baumgartner was born April 25,
1881. She died at the bloom of young woman-
220
hood, August 29, 1897. She was a member and
a steady attendant of the Berne Mennonite
Church. She was very fond of reading, having
made the record of reading 25 books from the
church library.
VI. Amanda Salome Baumgartner, born July 2, 1883,
joined the church of her family, the Berne Men-
nonite Church, in early youth and was married,
May 2, 1905, to Oscar Steiner of Berne, Indiana,
by their pastor, Rev. J. W. Kliewer. Oscar was
born north of Berne, May 29, 1880. He lives on
a farm northwest of Berne. Nine children
blessed this family, as follows, and are members
of the parents' church.
FIFTH GENERATION
1. Carlton Clyde Steiner, born at Berne, Indiana,
May 19, 1906, is employed in a hatchery at
Berne.
2. Perl Luther Steiner, Sebewaing, Michigan,
born December 13, 1907 near Lima, Ohio. Is
employed in a hatchery. Married to Sadie
Wilburn of Pigeon, Michigan, October 14, 1934.
One child:
1) Donna Elaine Steiner, born November 20,
1936.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
3. Luella Magdalena Steiner, Berne, Indiana,
born January 19, 1910, at Lima, Ohio. Is do-
ing house work. Single.
4. Emmett Lavear Steiner, Farmland, Indiana,
born August 8, 1911, at Berne, Indiana, was
221
married to Christene Pegg of Winchester, In-
diana, June 11, 1933, by Rev. Teeter. Two
children were born to them:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Beverly Joan Steiner, born December 21,
1933.
2) Patricia Sue Steiner, born September 9,
1935.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
5. Clarence Samuel Steiner, born September 8,
1914 at Berne, Indiana, works at Berne. Mar-
ried to Evangeline Nussbaum, August 29, 1937.
She was born November 13, 1918.
6. Melva Elizabeth Steiner, born May 2, 1918,
Berne, Indiana, died May 12, 1918.
7. Esther Christene Steiner, born August 17,
1919.
8. Weldon Arvine Steiner, born September 15,
1921.
9. Verna Gene Steiner, born May 7, 1924.
FOURTH GENERATION
Eph. Baumgartner Family Concluded
VII. Lenora May Baumgartner, was born 1885, died.
VIII. Lillie Ora Baumgartner, Geneva, Indiana, born
September 15, 1887, was married to Eli Habeg-
ger, September 20, 1911 by Rev. S. F. Sprunger,
pastor of the Mennonite Church, Berne, Indi-
ana of which the couple were members. They
live on a farm near Geneva, Indiana. They
have no children.
222
IX. Orva Milton Baumgartner, youngest child of
Ephraim Baumgartner, was born April 2, 1889,
died the same day.
THIRD GENERATION
SECTION X. BRANCH D
John M. Gerber, Sr., Descendants Continued
Marie Gerber, seventh daughter of John M. Ger-
ber, Sr., was born March 31, 1850, baptized April 10,
1868 by Rev. C. Sommer, Sonnenberg Church. She
died September 25, 1910. She was married to Chris-
tian Schwartz, March 14, 1871. They lived on the
farm now occupied by a descendant, John Steiner,
Jr. about % mile northwest of Sonnenberg Station,
two miles southwest of Dalton. They had twelve
children.
Seven Daughters of Mr. and Mrs. Chris Schwartz, Dalton.
Ohio.
Marietta, Susan, Lydia, Sarah, Rachel, Catherine, Clara.
223
FOURTH GENERATION
C. Schwartz Family
Rachel Schwartz was born December 27, 1871
and died November 21, 1933. She was married
to John P. Reigle, Gobies, Michigan, October 11,
1896 by Rev. Valkenburg. Mr. Reigle was born
at New Palestine, Missouri, June 30, 1871. Merch-
ant. They are Protestants. Six children were
born to this union, viz:
FIFTH GENERATION
1. Amelia Reigle was born March 19, 1898. Prot-
estant. She was married to Gilbert Odell,
Gobies, Michigan, at the Baptist Church by
Rev. Charles A. Lemon. Mr. Odell was born
August 4, 1896, Kendall, Michigan. Occupa-
tion, railroad lever man. One child was born
to this couple.
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Alice Jean Odell, born September 27, 1924.
Fifth Generation (Continued)
2. June Reigle, Luaton, Michigan, was born June
12, 1900. Protestant. She was married to
Mr. Marvin Root by Rev. Lemon. One child
was born to them, viz:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) David Root, born November 26, 1929.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
3. Orrville Reigle, Gobies, Michigan, born Jan-
uary 17, 1902, was married to Gertrude Wag-
ner, September 6, 1922, by Morton D. Canel,
224
Gobies, Michigan. Gertrude was born Feb-
ruary 24, 1902 at Chicago, Illinois. Mr. Reigle's
occupation is clerking. They are Protestants.
One child was born to this couple:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Marilyn Reigle, born May 6. 1926.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
4. Violet Reigle, Kalamazoo, Michigan, 329 N.
Rose, was born November 10, 1905. Protestant.
She was married to Neil Holtzer, January 24,
1928, by Rev. Hayes, Kendall, Michigan. Neil
was born September 24, 1905, Kalamazoo,
Michigan. Occupation, electric and sign build-
er.
5. Treva Reigle, Meuths, Michigan, born July
13, 1907, was married to Fred Morrison. Sep-
tember 7, 1929 by Rev. Hayes, Kendall, Mich-
igan. Protestant. One child was born to
them:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Eugene Charles Morrison, born August 3,
1935.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
6. Lola Reigle, Gobies, Michigan, was born April
15, 1909. Protestant. She was married to E.
Bargo, May 29, 1935, at South Bend, Indiana,
by Justice of Peace, J. Miller. He was born
September 29, 1905, at Aurora, Illinois.
SIXTH GENERATION
1) John Edward, born October 25, 1930.
225
FOURTH GENERATION
C. Schwartz Family Continued
II. Adam Schwartz, born July 5, 1873, died Septem-
ber 1, 1908.
III. John Schwartz, born June 22, 1875, not married.
IV. Lydia Schwartz, Beaver Dam, Ohio, born Feb-
ruary 13, 1877, near Orrville, Ohio, and died
January 18, 1937. Married to Louis Reigle, Beav-
dam, Ohio, by Rev. L. L. Woodruff, September
19, 1903. Louis was born December 12, 1869
Arlington, Ohio. They are Methodists. Two
children were born to them:
FIFTH GENERATION
1. Clara Agnes Reigle, born September 3, 1904,
died January 12, 1905.
2. Marvin Lewis Reigle, Columbus Grove, Ohio,
born March 15, 1907, was married to Edna
Faye Herman, June 10, 1930 by Neal Lora.
Lima, Ohio. Edna was born October 30, 1911
at Leipsig, Ohio. He is a plater. Two chil-
dren were born to this union:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Marvin Lewis Reigle, born May 10, 1931, at
Columbus Grove, Ohio.
2) Robert Duane Reigle, born September 12,
1932 at Columbus Grove, Ohio.
FOURTH GENERATION
C. Schwartz Family Continued
V. Katherine Schwartz, born April 3, 1879, was
married to Albert D. Moser, March 24, 1906 by
226
Rev. H. D. Allen, Wooster, Ohio. Mr. Moser
an engineer for many years on the W. & L. E.
Railroad. His present residence is Brewster, O.
They are Reformed. Four children were born
to this couple:
FIFTH GENERATION
1 Odessa C. Moser, born October 11, 1907, lives
at Brewster, Ohio. She belongs to the Re-
formed Church. Born at Dillionvale, Ohio.
2. Carrol F. Moser, born December 18, 1908, mar-
ried Estella M. Gould of Moundsville, W. Vir-
ginia, by Rev. Palmer, December 8, 1936. Es-
tella was born September 1, 1905, Moundsville,
W. Virginia.
3. Stanley L. Moser, born August 24, 1910.
4. Alberta I. Moser, born November 22, 1912, at
Moscow, Ohio. Reformed.
FOURTH GENERATION CONTINUED
VI. Simon S. Schwartz, R. 1, Dalton, Ohio, born
February 23, 1881, was married to Annie Moser,
October 15, 1908 at Wooster, Ohio. Annie was
born June 2, 1885. Mr. Schwartz for many years
worked in a factory at Orrville, but of late lives
in a house on the Clyde Bixler farm, southwest
of Dalton. General laborer. Four children were
born.
FIFTH GENERATION
1. Howard Schwartz, born October 12, 1907, died
February 20, 1920.
2. Raymond Schwartz, born May 23, 1912.
3. Edith Schwartz, born July 18, 1919.
4. Edison Schwartz, born September 9. 1924.
227
FOURTH GENERATION
VII. Susan Schwartz, Smithville, Ohio, born Feb-
ruary 4, 1884, was married to David B. Kurtz,
Amish Mennonite, March 9, 1902 by H. H.
Bachman, Marshalville, Ohio. Eight children
were born to them.
FIFTH GENERATION
1. Evelyn Kurtz, Rittman, Ohio, born May 8,
1903, near Orrville, Ohio, married to W. J.
Grant, September 24, 1927 by Rev. Yoder.
Grant was born May 30, 1899. United Pres-
byterian. Occupation, Mechanical Engineer.
Two children:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Richard E. Grant, born April 10, 1929.
2) Margaret Lou Grant, born March 30,
1932.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
2. Roy W. Kurtz, Phoenix, Arizona, born De-
cember 19, 1904 near Wooster, Ohio. Oc-
cupation, testing tires. Methodist.
3. Bessie A. Kurtz, Smithville, Ohio, born Au-
gust 16, 1907, at Orrville, Ohio, married to
Dayton Heiks. September 2, 1933, by Rev.
Elliott, Methodist, at Dalton, Ohio. Dayton
was born December 8, 1897. Laborer in saw
mill. Two children were born to them:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Jean Louis Heiks, born May 3, 1930.
Canton, Ohio.
2) Donna Mae Heiks, born July 19, 1937.
228
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
4. William D. Kurtz, Los Angeles, California,
133% Camulas St., born June 2, 1909 near
Smithville, Ohio, married to Ruth Hitch. Mr.
Kurtz works for Goodrich Rubber Tire Co.
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Billy Eugene, Roy. Born July 28, 1937.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
5. Gordon W. Kurtz, Rittman, Ohio, born July
10, 1911 near Orrville, Ohio, married to
Grace Treadway, January 9, 1937. Occu-
pation, Boxboard Co. One child.
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Wanda Marie, born October 20, 1937.
Died at birth.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
6. Edwin F. Kurtz, Smithville, Ohio, born
January 6, 1914, at Akron, Ohio.
7. Paul E. Kurtz, Smithville, Ohio, born March
29, 1918.
8. Mary L. Kurtz, born Smithville, Ohio, July
14, 1920.
9. Infant died, February 25, 1922.
FOURTH GENERATION
C. Schwartz Family Continued
VIII. David Schwartz, Dalton, Ohio, born Septem-
ber 19, 1885, was married to Olive Moser. Jan-
uary 8, 1916, by Rev. E. E. Young, Wooster.
Ohio. David is a general laborer;. Olive,
229
daughter of John A. Moser, was born Decem-
ber 8, 1890, south of Dalton, Ohio. One child
was born to them.
FIFTH GENERATION
1. Donald Francis Schwartz, born January 12,
1919, at Massillon, Ohio.
FOURTH GENERATION
IX. Sarah Schwartz, Wooster, Ohio, R. 2, born June
17, 1887, was married to Elmer Fetter, by Rev.
E. E. Young, June 22, 1915, of Wooster, Ohio.
Elmer was born September 2, 1883. Two chil-
dren were born to them.
FIFTH GENERATION
1. Ruth Lucille Fetter, born July 31, 1917.
2. Doris Joella Fetter, born March 31, 1920
These are all members of the Brethren
Church.
FOURTH GENERATION
C. Schwartz Family Continued
X. Joel Schwartz, Oberlin, Ohio, 238 W. Lorain, was
born April 2, 1889. Joel was interested in edu-
cation -and music. In the great war he served
in the thickest of fighting in the Argonne, France,
as artillery man. Returning, he at once went to
Oberlin to complete his education, first in busi-
ness college where he served after graduation
on the faculty or staff. In the meantime he spent
his spare time in the conservatory, studying
voice and he sang in all the choral organizations
230
of the conservatory. He was married at Oberlin
to Doris Comstock, November 24, 1920, by Rev-
Phil E. Harding. In religion, Joel subscribed to
Christian Science. Doris was born September
12, 1881, Amherst, Ohio. On July 29, 1934 his
many relatives and friends here, where he had
grown up, were shocked by the news of his sud-
den death from indigestion. One sweet daugh-
ter shed sunshine into the happy life of this
couple.
FIFTH GENERATION
1. Mary Louise Schwartz, born August 4, 1927.
FOURTH GENERATION CONTINUED
XI. Clara Schwartz was born January 13, 1891, and
was married to Fred Farni, Dalton, Ohio, Feb-
ruary 4, 1919. The couple lives on a farm just
east of Dalton on the highway. Mr. Farni is
engaged, besides farming, in trucking and of
late he added a school bus to his busy time. Fred
was born December 24, 1889, in Canton Bern,
Switzerland. He came to America on November
6, 1911. They have two children.
FIFTH GENERATION
1. Ralph Farni. born August 7, 1920.
2. Richard Farni, born April 18, 1928.
FOURTH GENERATION
C. Schwartz Family Concluded
XII. Marietta Schwartz, Dalton, Ohio, youngest
child of Christian Schwartz, was born May 9.
1892, and married to Louis Berg. October T2.
231
1910, by Rev. J. V. Findley, Dalton, Ohio. Mr.
Berg died of heart failure January 7, 1930. Five
children were born to them. Protestant.
FIFTH GENERATION
1. Russel Berg, born August 1, 1911, died July
22, 1913.
2. Sylvia M. Berg, born July 31, 1912, was mar-
ried to Walter Ott, December 24, 1931. Mr.
Ott is working for the township. Three chil-
dren have been reported.
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Marjory Marie Ott, born August 27, 1932,
Dalton, Ohio.
2) Walter Ott Jr., born December 20, 1935.
Dalton, Ohio.
3) Mary Elizabeth, born January 31, 1938.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
3. Anna E. Berg, born November 10, 1913, is
single and does domestic work.
4. Clarence M. Berg was born October 31, 1916.
Farm laborer.
5. Robert Lewis Berg, born January 6, 1927.
THIRD GENERATION
SECTION XI. BRANCH D
John M. Gerber, Sr., Descendants Continued
Daniel M. Gerber, youngest son of John M. Gerber,
Sr., was born March 15, 1852, on the pioneer Gerber
homestead on Sonnenberg. He was baptized into
membership of the Sonnenberg Church in his youth
232
and on September 27, 1875, was married to Dina
Welty, daughter of another pioneer Sonnenberg
family, the Welty's. Rev. C. Sommcr officiated at the
wedding. Dina was born August 20, 1856. The couple
occupied the pioner farm until Daniel's death, No-
vember 23, 1919, when a son, Rufus, followed in his
footsteps and still operates the farm. Mother Gerber
is still living with her son's family. The following
children were the issue of Father Daniel:
FOURTH GENERATION
Daniel M. Gerber Family
I. Amos Gerber, oldest son of Daniel, was born
July 30, 1876. He was baptized into Sonnenberg
Church membership, April 12, 1895, by Rev.
Jacob Nussbaum. He was married to Olive Som-
mer by Rev. Paul Aeschliman, near Colfax.
Washington, May 12, 1907. She was born in
Oregon, October 13, 1882, and died July 14, 1919.
Amos Gerber is still farming near Colfax, Wash-
ington.
When Amos was 21 years old, i. e., in the
spring of 1898, he left his parental home for the
West. Stopping first in Putman County, this
state, he worked there for the summer. In the
fall of that year he and five of his friends started
west, going as far as Nampa, Idaho, where they
camped among the Indians. Next spring they
continued their treck westward into Eastern
Washington where Mr. Gerber took up govern-
ment land, 160 acres. He later sold this and went
on to Colfax where he purchased 275 acres of
good wheat land where he stayed ever since,
233
becoming one of the prosperous wheat farmers
of that famous wheat belt. Amos has three chil-
dren, two of them living.
FIFTH GENERATION
1. Arvilla Gerber, oldest daughter of Amos
Gerber, was born near Colfax, Washington,
April 19, 1908. She died September 14, of the
same year.
2. Clarence Gerber was born November 28, 1911,
at Colfax, Washington. He works in an air-
plane factory at San Diego, California.
3. Juanita Gerber was born May 12, 1917. She
is studying music at Scherwood Music School,
Chicago, Illinois.
FOURTH GENERATION CONTINUED
II. Adam Gerber, born September 18, 1877, died
January 5, 1890, in his boyhood days of pneu-
monia.
III. Levina Gerber, oldest daughter of Daniel M.
Gerber, was born May 10, 1879. She was married
to David J. Hofstetter, June 8, 1901 by Rev.
Jacob Nussbaum. David was born June 27, 1875.
The family acquired the old Johannes Tschantz
farm on the Sonnenberg Road, northeast of Kid-
ron. An energetic set of boys of his own have
been helping him in the arduous job of successful
farming. They are members of the Mennonite
Church, as also all the children. Following are
the children born to this family:
FIFTH GENERATION
1. Adam Hofstetter, born May 10, 1902. Died as
an infant.
234
2. Sylvan Hofstetter, Apple Creek, Ohio, R. 1,
was born November 25, 1903. He was married,
February 10, 1929, to Martha Nussbnum of
the Jacob J. Nussbaum family, long resident
northwest of Kidron. Their pastor, Rev. C. N.
Amstutz of the Sonnenberg Church, officiat-
ed at the wedding. Mr. Hofstetter is a very
efficient truck driver, hauling milk from
Wooster to Cleveland since a number of years.
He recently traded his home with David Nuss-
baum's farm west of Kidron and is now farm-
ing. They have two children:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Corinne Mae Hofstetter, born May 25,
1930.
2) Marjorie Eileen Hofstetter, born March
24, 1937.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
3. Clyde Hofstetter, Wooster, Ohio, born Octo-
ber 16, 1905, is another milk driver between
Wooster and Cleveland.
4. Erna Hofstetter, born May 22, 1907, died as an
infant.
5. Cora Hofstetter, born October 24, 1908, is at
home helping her mother in domestic work.
6. Lores Hofstetter, born April 15, 1910, is hiring
out as laborer hand. Married to Laura Nuss-
baum June 19, 1938, by Rev. Allen Bixler.
7. Willis Hofstetter, born February 11, 1912, is
day laborer.
8. Clair Hofstetter, born October 30, 1913, is his
235
father's main stay on the farm. He trucks milk
to Wooster beside his farm work.
9. Hulda Hofstetter, born December 10, 1914,
died January 1, 1915.
10. Diana Hofstetter, born February 20, 1916,
died as an infant.
11. Herman Hofstetter, born January 14, 1919,
was an invalid and died February 26, 1931, of
pneumonia.
FOURTH GENERATION
Dan Gerber Family Continued
IV. Rufus Gerber, second living son of Daniel M.
Gerber, was born July 16, 1882. He was married
to Lizzie E. Zuercher, November 14, 1912, by
their pastor, Rev. J. Nussbaum, of the Sonnen-
berg Church. Lizzie was born February 4, 1892.
Rufus operates the pioneer farm of the Michael
Gerber relation. They are members of the Kid-
dron Mennonite Church. Three children have
been born into this family, viz:
FIFTH GENERATION
1. Lester R. Gerber, born August 22, 1913, bap-
tized by Rev. O. N. Johns April 5, 1931. Mar-
ried to Esther Baumgartner August 23, 1936,
by Rev. C. H. Suckau of Berne Mennonite
Church. Lester is farming the Baumgartner
homestead near Berne, Indiana. Two daugh-
ters have been born to the union:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Marjorie Fay Gerber. Born May 16, 1937.
2) Edith Annette Gerber, born July 6, 1938.
236
FIFTH GENERATION
2. Olive R. Gerber, born October 16, 1914, was
baptized, April 5, 1931. Member of the Men-
nonite Church, married to Gilbert Nussbaum
October 18, 1936, by Rev. O. N. Johns. Gilbert
born July 3, 1914, Apple Creek, Ohio.
SIXTH GENERATION
1) One child, James Nevin Nussbaum, August
24, 1937.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
3. Dwight R. Gerber, born May 23, 1918, is a
member of the Mennonite Church.
FOURTH GENERATION
Dan M. Gerber Family Continued
V. Philip Gerber, Dalton, Ohio, born April 27, 1886,
and was married to Pauline Amstutz December
3, 1908, at Sonnenberg Church, by Rev. Jacob
Nussbaum. Pauline was born September 13,
1887, daughter of Ben Amstutz, they are farm-
ers. The following are the fruits of this union.
FIFTH GENERATION
1. Luella Gerber, Apple Creek, Ohio, born Jan-
uary 3, 1908, was married to Lester Lehman,
son of David P. Lehman, south of Kidron,
February 17, 1929, by Rev. C. N. Amstutz. He
was born June 3, 1908. Lester sells farm
machinery. Two children have been born to
the couple.
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Betty Jean Lehman, born November 19,
1929.
237
2) Kathleen Mae Lehman, born May 21, 1932.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
2. Elma Gerber, born February 21, 1912, married
to Vilas Zuercher.
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Catherine Marie, born March 4, 1938.
FIFTH GENERATION
3. Rhoda Gerber, born May 10, 1915. Married to
George Nussbaum, May 21, 1937, by Rev. W.
G. Detweiler of Canton, O., Mennonite Mis-
sion.
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Mary Louise Nussbaum, born July 26, 1938.
FIFTH GENERATION
4. Anna Gerber, born November 18, 1919.
The last three form a trio of radio singers,
also at sacred and social gatherings. They are
members of the Mennonite Church.
FOURTH GENERATION
Dan Gerber Family Continued
VI. Hulda Gerber, second daughter of Dan M. Ger-
ber was born May 5, 1890, and was married, June
29, 1919, as second wife to John C. Hofstetter of
this settlement, by Rev. C. N. Amstutz, of the
Sonnenberg Mennonite Church. John was born
September 1, 1881. Address, Dalton, Ohio, R. 1.
Three children were born to them:
FIFTH GENERATION
1. Chester Oliver Hofstetter, born April 2, 1921,
died of spinal trouble, February 14, 1922.
2. Laverne Monroe Hofstetter, born January 9,
1923.
238
3. Wilford John Hofstetter, born November 30
1930.
FOURTH GENERATION CONTINUED
VII. Anna Gerber, Orrville, Ohio, born October 24,
1891, was married to Edwin Zucrchcr, Sep-
tember 7, 1919, by Bishop C. N. Amstutz, Men-
nonite Church. Edwin was born south of Orr-
ville, December 26, 1891. They have had three
children.
FIFTH GENERATION
1. Dorothy E. Zuercher, born April 17, 1920.
2. Verna I. Zuercher, born January 26, 1923.
3. Clarence Zuercher, born February 19, 1926,
died the same day.
FOURTH GENERATION CONTINUED
VIII. Elbert Gerber, born August 25, 1894, is a men-
tal deficient and is at home with his mother
and brother.
IX. Edna Gerber, born June 12, 1897, is at home
with her mother and brother, being physically
crippled. She was baptized April 10, 1914.
THIRD GENERATION
SECTION XII. BRANCH D
John M. Gerber, Sr., Descendants Concluded
Regina Gerber, twelfth and last issue of John M.
Gerber, Sr., was born May 23, 1854. She was a mem-
ber of the Sonnenberg Mennonite Church and was
married to Edward Chatelain, September 15, 1881,
by Rev. John Moser. One child was born to this
union.
239
FOURTH GENERATION
1. Lee Chatelain, born June 4, 1882. Regina died
July 4, 1883, and was buried at the Sonnenberg
Cemetery. Edward married the second time to
Rebecca Gerber (see under Branch A, Section II,
under Peter Hofstetter descendants). After Ed-
ward was married again they moved to Harper,
Kansas. Lee was the only child from the first
marriage, and is unmarried. He is farming near
Fowler, Kansas.
SECOND GENERATION
BRANCH E
Ulrich Gerber
Ulrich L. Gerber, the second son and fifth (young-
est) offspring of Deacon Michael Gerber, was born in
Switzerland, October 8, 1809, and emigrated with
his father as a twelve year old boy to the young
Sonnenberg settlement here. On November 5, 1836,
he was married to Anna Lehman, daughter of a Son-
nenberg pioneer, by Elder Peter Schneck. His father
settled him on the east half of his quarter section,
what later became known as the Abraham Gerber
Farm, this Abraham being Ulrich's youngest son,
and which is now occupied by Abraham's son-in-
law, Adam Hofstetter. Ulrich died May 9, 1874, aged
64 years, 7 months and 1 day. His farm became
known as a place for good fruit, especially cherries
known as "haerz" or "Zoll Kirshy" (heart or inch
cherries) . They were said to have originated in Eng-
land. Mother Gerber's death is not recorded. Eight
children were the fruits of this union: Maria, Anna,
240
Isaac, Catharina, Jacob, Elizabeth, Magdalcna and
Abraham.
THIRD GENERATION
SECTION I. BRANCH E
Maria Gerber, born November 12, 1837, died in in-
fancy.
SECTION II. BRANCH E
Peter Welty Family
Anna Gerber, second daughter of Ulrich Gerber,
was born May 19, 1839. She became a member of
the Sonnenberg Church and was married to Peter
Welty, September 28, 1861, by U. Sommer. Peter
was born February 17, 1839, near Mt. Eaton, Ohio.
They lived on a farm south of Kidron now occupied
by his son Reuben. Peter died July 16, 1918, and his
wife, December 12, 1918, both aged past 80 years.
This union was blessed with seven children, as fol-
lows: Benjamin, John, William, Rosa (Mrs. Dan Bix-
ler) , Daniel, Sarah, and Reuben Welty.
FOURTH GENERATION
I. Benjamin Welty was born July 7, 1862, and was
married to Maryann D. Baumgartner, daughter
of David Baumgartner, December 10, 1885, by
Jacob Nussbaum of the Sonnenberg Church.
She was born December 9, 1863. One child (see
below) was born to this union. Mrs. Welty died
January 15, 1896.
Mr. Welty was married to his second wife, Lena
Gerber, daughter of Christian Gerber, [son of John
241
M. Gerber, Sr., (see under Christian M. Gerber)].
No children were born to this union.
FIFTH GENERATION
1. David Nelson Welty, R. 1, Apple Creek, Ohio,
only son of Benjamin Welty, was born No-
vember 26, 1891. He is a farmer. He was
married to Susan Gerber, oldest daughter of
Jacob M. Gerber, November 26, 1916, by C.
N. Amstutz, pastor of the Sonnenberg
Church. She was born April 25, 1896. They
live a mile south of Kidron. Two children
were born to this couple.
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Denver Lee Welty, born December 20,
1922.
2) Edith Mardel Welty, born January 28,
1936.
FOURTH GENERATION CONTINUED
Peter Welty Family Continued
II. John Welty was born March 16. 1867, and mar-
ried to Anna Bixler, daughter of Daniel Bixler,
December 31, 1893, by Rev. Jacob Nussbaum of
the Sonnenberg Church. She was born Decem-
ber 9, 1863, and died February 22, 1933, age 69
years, 1 month and 23 days. No children were
born to this union. John lives with David Mos-
ers at present.
III. William Welty, third son of Peter Welty was
born February 15, 1870, and died a youth of 18
years, September 15, 1888.
IV. Rose Welty, daughter of Peter Welty, was born
242
November 28, 1872. She was married to Dan it 1
D. Bixler, son of David Bixler, January 5, 1901,
by Rev. Jacob Nussbaum. The couple lives
near Wadsworth, Ohio, on a farm. He now be-
longs to a Mennonite Church in Medina Coun-
ty, Ohio. Daniel was born June 4, 1872, near
Dalton, Ohio. Five children were born to them.
FIFTH GENERATION
Daniel Bixler Family
1. Orlo Bixler, Wadsworth, Ohio, son of Daniel
Bixler, was born April 25, 1902. He is a
graduate from the Wadsworth High School,
in 1922. He holds Mennonite Church mem-
bership.
2. Aldis Bixler, born November 23, 1903, died
April 17, 1904.
3. Dora Bixler, Barberton, Ohio, 307 Wunder-
lich Ave., born February 14, 1906, near Ap-
ple Creek, Ohio. Is a graduate of High
School and married to Veril K. Gume of Rib
Lake, Wisconsin, May 29, 1936, by Rev. B. S.
Arnold of Barberton, Ohio. Veril was born
December 15, 1907. They are Methodists.
4. Wilson Bixler, born December 2, 1907, died
February 15, 1908.
5. Milo Bixler, born August 16, 1911, a high
school graduate, is employed on the farm.
All the children living subscribe to the Men-
nonite Church.
FOURTH GENERATION
V. Daniel Welty, Apple Creek, Ohio, R. 1, born
243
August 16, 1875, was married to Mary Zaugg,
January 2, 1902, by Bishop Jacob Nussbaum,
the couple then being members of the Sonnen-
berg Church. Mary was born April 5, 1881, in
Canton Bern, Switzerland. About fifteen years
ago they transferred their membership to Salem
Church of which the family are members since.
They have a pretty farm home a mile south of
Kidron where Mrs. Welty specializes in raising
a profusion of beautiful flowers. Five children
have gladdened their home, viz:
FIFTH GENERATION
Daniel Welty Family
1. Arvine Welty, Berne, Indiana, born October
7, 1902, was married to Martha C. Neuen-
schwander, Berne, Indiana, September 2,
1928, by Rev. Andrew Neuenschwander,
Berne, Indiana. The couple are members of
the Berne Mennonite Church. Arvine is a
skilled buyer of live stock at Berne for a
shipping firm. Martha was born May 12,
1904. Two children have been born to them.
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Lewis Daniel Welty, born April 8, 1931,
died May 9, 1935.
2) Ruth Ann Welty, born October 20, 1933.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
2. Elta Welty, oldest daughter of Dan Welty,
was born February 19, 1905, married to Clin-
ton Habegger, of Berne, Indiana, May 30,
1936, by Rev. A. R. Keiser, reside in Berne.
244
Clinton was born February 11, 1899, at
Berne, Indiana.
3. Ruth M. Welty, born January 2, 1907, was
married to Arnold Raber, August 15, 1932,
by Rev. A. R. Keiser. Mr. Reber is a car-
penter, born April 15, 1904. They are mem-
bers of Salem Church. Two children have
been born to them, viz:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Richard Arnold Raber, born and died
March 11, 1933.
2) Harold Dean Raber, born August 2, 1934,
at Massillon City Hospital.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
4. Esther I. Welty, Massillon, Ohio, was born
March 14, 1909, and married to Harry Rine,
June 20, 1931, by Rev. A. R. Keiser.
5. Sylvia Welty, was born December 17, 1915.
She was married to Homer Hostetler of
Benton, Ohio, by Rev. Curtis Wise, June 20,
1937. Homer was born April 12, 1912.
SIXTH GENERATION
1) One child, Gary Lee, born March 9, 1938.
The family are members of the Salem Men-
nonite Church.
FOURTH GENERATION CONTINUED
VI. Sarah Welty, second daughter of Peter Welty,
was born December 18, 1878. She was never
married but lived south of Kidron with her
245
brothers Reuben and Benjamin till her death,
September 10, 1935.
VII. Reuben Welty, youngest son of Peter Welty
was born December 8, 1880. He was never mar-
ried, worked his fathers farm.
THIRD GENERATION
SECTION III. BRANCH E
Ulrich L. Gerber, Descendants Continued
Isaac Gerber, first son of Ulrich Gerber, was born
February 2, 1841, and baptized into the membership
of the Sonnenberg Church, April 22, 1859. He was
married to Magdalena Welty, a daughter of a Son-
nenberg pioneer, March 25, 1862, by Bishop U. Som-
mer. Isaac died February 22, 1873, and his wife, No-
vember 22, 1896. Three children were born to them.
FOURTH GENERATION
Isaac Gerber Family
I. Anna Gerber, daughter of Isaac Gerber, was
born March 25, 1863, and married to Joel Hof-
stetter in January, 1885. She died after the birth
of her only child. Joel died in 1895, April 7.
FIFTH GENERATION
1. Andrew Hofstetter, born February 8, 1886,
was married to Dinah Amstutz, daughter of
Daniel Amstutz, December 8, 1907. Dinah
was born March 27, 1886. The family lives at
Wooster, Ohio, where Mr. Hofstetter is em-
ployed at the Experiment Station. One daugh-
ter was born to them.
246
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Ruth Hofstetter, only daughter of Andrew
Hofstetter, was born January 30, 1909. She
was married to Leonard Hines, July 5,
1933, West Salem, Ohio, by Rev. R. K.
Smith. Mr. Hines is a farmer.
FOURTH GENERATION
I. Gerber Family Continued
II. Barbara M. Gerber, Canton, Ohio, was born Jan-
uary 1, 1865, and married to William H.
Tschantz, February 25, 1890, by Rev. Jacob
Nussbaum, Sonnenberg. Mr. Tschantz was born
November 29, 1863, on a farm two miles south
of Orrville, the son of Peter and Anna (Hofstet-
ter) Tschantz.
Wm. H. Tschantz Family
Mr. Tschantz and his brother David were both
born mechanics. From their early youth they
experimented with machinery in a shop they
rigged up at their parental home. Sometime al-
ter his maturity Will established a machine shop
on West Market in Orrville which in course of
a few years was developed into a plant for the
manufacture of the celebrated Cyclone Drill, an
invention of Will's own. After fifteen years the
ownership of the plant, having in the meantime
been organized into a chartered stock company,
of which Will was manager, the manufacture
of the valuable invention passed into the hands
of a bigger corporation elsewhere and Will
moved to Canton where he joined his brother
David, who had been operating a similar plant,
247
first devoted to the manufacture of buggies and
since changed to a repair garage of automobile
repairing and of late years into designing and
manufacture of electrical appliances, since sev-
eral years entirely under Will's own manage-
ment. Will and his wife have identified them-
selves with a church of Canton. The following
children have come into their family.
FIFTH GENERATION
1. Anna Dora Tschantz. born December 6. 1890,
and died in her tender childhood. October.
1895.
2. Josephine Ellen Tschantz. Canton, Ohio. R. D.
3. born June 23. 1892. was married to Harvey
E. Wirth, March 13. 1915.. by S. P. Preheim.
Harvey was born June 23, 1890. Orrville. O.
They are Mennonites. Their children are: —
SIXTH GENERATION
1 ) Arlene Mary Wirth. born December 15,
1915. Canton. Ohio.
2) Melvin Wirth. born October 23. 1920. Can-
ton. Ohio.
3) Mildred B. Wirth. born March 26. 1926.
Canton. Ohio.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
3. Ira Millard Tschantz. Canton. Ohio. 939 Mary-
land Ave.. S. W.. oldest son of Wm. H.
Tschantz. Canton. Ohio, was born September
6. 1894. at Sonnenberg. and married to Nellie
V. Horton. Nellie was born at Mojava. Califor-
nia. October 25. 1898. He is a machinist and a
M8
member of a Nazarene congregation. Th
children were born to them.
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Warren D. Tschantz, born May 25, 1921,
Canton, Ohio.
2) Wadene E. Tschantz, born October 26,
1924, Canton, Ohio.
3) Sharlyn Ann Tschantz, born December 29,
1930, Canton, Ohio.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
Martin Luther Tschantz, Canton, Ohio, 1311
Roslyn Ave., S. W., second son of Wm. H.
Tschantz, Canton, Ohio, was born November
30, 1895, at Sonnenberg, Ohio, and married to
Mildred G. Doney, June 16, 1923, by Rev. J. L.
Wilson. Mildred was born August 10, 1902,
Canton, Ohio. Martin is a bookkeeper at his
father's office. They are members of a Naz-
arene congregation. They have two children.
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Martin Luther Tschantz, Jr., born January
20, 1924, Canton, Ohio.
2) William H. Tschantz Jr., born June 5, 1930.
Canton, Ohio.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
Esther Elizabeth Tschantz, Canton, Ohio, 1150
Roslyn Ave., S. W., born June 14, 1898, near
Orrville, Ohio, was married to Ira Spninger,
December 25, 1920, by Rev. Record. Ira is a
shipping clerk in his father-in-law's estab-
249
lishment, Canton, Ohio. Two children have
joined them in making sunshine in their home.
They are Congregational.
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Frances L. Sprunger, born February 28,
1922, Canton, Ohio.
2) Doris M. Sprunger, born May 26, 1927, Can-
ton, Ohio.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
6. Lillian May Tschantz, Canton, Ohio, 633 Ros-
lyn Ave., S. W., born August 20, 1901, near
Orrville, Ohio, was married to Wm. S. Horton,
electrician. One child enlivens their home.
They are Congregational.
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Norman Gene Horton, born May 20, 1927.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
7. Raymond Davis Tschantz, Canton, Ohio, 1239
Park Ave., S. W., born May 7, 1905, near Orr-
ville, Ohio, was married to Rosa Rindchen of
Canton, Ohio, September 21, 1929, by Rev.
C. F. Forrey, Canton, Ohio. He is a machinist.
Two children are reported of that union.
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Gerald R. Tschantz, born July 4, 1932.
2) Grayden W. Tschantz, born February 24,
1935.
FOURTH GENERATION
Isaac Gerber Family Continued
III. William I. Gerber, only son of Isaac Gerber, was
250
born on the farm he owned about midway
between Dalton and Mt. Eaton, April 29, 1867. He
was married to Sarah Bixler, daughter of Daniel
Bixler, Sr., December 15, 1891, by Rev. Jacob
Nussbaum of the Sonnenberg Church. Sarah
was born January 21, 1868. After his marriage he
took possession of his father's farm and has
since acquired considerable real estate. Sarah
died November 1, 1936; she was a member of the
Mennonite Church. Will died March 22, 1937.
Nine children have been born into the family,
as follows.
FIFTH GENERATION
Wm. I. Gerber Family
1. Esther Gerber, Dalton, Ohio, oldest daughter
of Wm. I. Gerber, was born January 1, 1893,
and married to Floyd R. Saurer, blacksmith
of Kidron, December 30, 1915, by Rev. E. E.
Young. Mr. Saurer was born May 17, 1892.
They are members of the Reformed Church.
Two children have been born to them.
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Floris Marie Saurer was born July 17,
1916. She is a member of the Mt. Eaton Re-
formed Church, like her parents, a grad-
uate of Dalton High School, and married to
Ed Sommer of Rittman, Ohio, November
21, 1936, by Rev. S. J. T. Flohr, Mt. Eaton,
Ohio. One child was born to them: —
SEVENTH GENERATION
(1) William Dale, born May 9, 1937.
251
SIXTH GENERATION CONTINUED
2) Russel Floyd Saurer, was born May 3, 1918.
He is a Senior in Dalton High School. He
is a member of the Reformed Church, Mt.
Eaton.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
2. Clyde Wilson Gerber, Dalton, Ohio, oldest son
of Wm. I. Gerber, was born July 27, 1894. He
is farming. He was married to Erma Saurer,
June 20, 1921, by Rev. Flohr of the Mt. Eaton
Reformed Church. No children reported.
3. Melvin Milton was born August 8, 1896. He
is a railroad engineer and lives at Massillon,
Ohio. He was married to Mary Jane Smiley,
March 5, 1931, by Rev. Herman C. Getter,
Lutheran.
4. Millard Bryant Gerber, Massillon, Ohio, 965
Walnut Rd., S. W., was born May 22, 1898, is
a steel worker. He was married May 22, 1926,
to Florence Mary Kochender by Rev. J. E.
Digel, St. John Evangelical Church, Massillon,
Ohio. Florence was born July 13, 1902, Wines-
burg, Ohio. Two children have been born to
them.
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Betty Jean Gerber, born March 15, 1928.
2) Dorothy Marie Gerber, born July 20, 1931.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
5. Dennis Calvin Gerber, Brewster, Ohio, was
born March 1, 1900, and married to Mildred
Charlton, November 24, 1927. He is storage
252
clerk for the W. & L. E. R. R. at Brewster. One
child has come to this union.
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Robert E. Lee Gerber, born January 30,
1929.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
6. Grace Marie Gerber, Massillon, Ohio, was
born November 20, 1901, and married to Ellis
Kirchofer, August 14, 1928, by Rev. Thall of
Albion, Michigan. They live in Massillon
where Mr. Kirchofer is a salesman in a hard-
ware store. They are members of Salem
Mennonite Church. One child joined this
union.
SIXTH GENERATION
1) William Ellis Kirchofer, born November
13, 1934.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
7. Lina A. Gerber, born May 3, 1904, lives in Los
Angeles, California, a single life, being em-
ployed as a domestic worker.
8. Glen Roy Gerber, born March 21, 1906, mar-
ried to Cora Franks of Wooster, Ohio, by Rev.
DeLanter, 1937.
9. Lyman Critchfield Gerber, born March 18,
1908, who is the youngest son of Wm. I. Ger-
ber.
THIRD GENERATION
SECTION IV. BRANCH E
Ulrich L. Gerber, Descendants Continued
Catharina Gerber, born March 18, 1842, died an
infant. 253
SECTION V. BRANCH E
Jacob Gerber, born December 12, 1843, died in
childhood.
SECTION VI. BRANCH E
Elizabeth Gerber, born February 23, 1846, baptized
March 25, 1864, by C. Sommer, Sonnenberg Mennon-
ite Church, was married to Abraham Hofstetter,
November 23, 1871. Elizabeth died April 21, 1906.
Mr. Hofstetter died December 2, 1872. One daughter
was born to them.
FOURTH GENERATION
I. Anna Hofstetter, only child of Abraham and
Elizabeth (Gerber) Hofstetter, was born Octo-
ber 23, 1872, and married to Jacob A. Moser,
August 10, 1893, by Rev. Jacob Nussbaum. The
couple resided a number of years on the bride's
parental farm southeast of Dalton, then sold it
and moved to Orrville, Ohio, where Mr. Moser is
since engaged in real estate and insurance
business. They are members of a Methodist
Church at Orrville. Mr. Moser was born March
4, 1872. The couple have two children.
FIFTH GENERATION
Jacob A. Moser Family
1. Ellen Mae Moser, Orrville, Ohio, born July 2,
1894, was married to Wilbur S. Geiger, June
24, 1914, by Rev. R. Burris. Wilbur was born
April 6, 1892. The couple are members of the
Methodist Church at Orrville. Mr. Geiger is
a successful Ford agent. Three children en-
liven their home.
254
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Lois Catherine Geiger, born April 22, 1916.
2) Vincent Maurice Geiger, born December 3,
1917.
3) Robert Franklin Geiger, born January 29,
1919.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
2. Victor H. Moser, born December 13, 19 — , was
married to Winifred Bryenton, July 17, 1920,
by the bride's father Rev. W. H. Bryenton,
Methodist minister. The couple's address is
Ashtabula, Ohio, 1097 Walnut Blvd. Their two
children are:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Vivian Mae Moser, born April 20, 1922.
2) Raymond Lee Moser, born October 23,
1924.
THIRD GENERATION CONTINUED
SECTION VII. BRANCH E
Magdalena Gerber, born January 1, 1848, died an
infant.
THIRD GENERATION I
SECTION VIII. BRANCH E
Ulrich L. Gerber, Descendants (Continued)
Abraham L. Gerber, last offspring of Ulrich Ger-
ber, born June 12, 1849, was married to Barbara
Moser, daughter of Abraham Moser, October 9, 1879,
by Rev. C. Sommer of the Sonnenberg Mennonite
255
Church. Barbara was born August 15, 1858, south of
Dalton. Abraham took his father's farm which he
operated until, because of his age, he turned it over
to his son-in-law, Adam J. Hofstetter, the present
owner. Abraham died May 6, 1933, aged 83 years, 10
months and 24 days. Barbara died October 13, 1937.
The following children were born to the family:
FOURTH GENERATION
Abraham L. Gerber Family
I. Verena Gerber, born October 15, 1880, died March
16, 1897, of typhoid pneumonia.
II. Simon A. Gerber, R. 1, Apple Creek, Ohio, was
born August 18, 1882. On November 15, 1906, he
married Fanny Amstutz, by Rev. Jacob Nuss-
baum at Sonnenberg Church. Fanny is daughter
of Daniel Amstutz. She was born July 24, 1887.
The couple own and operate the old Dan Amstuz
homestead northwest of Kidron (address, R. 1,
Apple Creek, Ohio) . They are members of Salem
Church. They have four children.
FIFTH GENERATION
1. Victor Gerber, born November 13, 1907, re-
ceived a high school education at Dalton, Ohio,
and attended Bluff ton College, majoring in
music, for which he showed a natural inclina-
tion from childhood up. In instrumental music
he is a proficient instructor, especially in
violin, but also in piano and organ. His major
talent is leadership of choirs. For several sea-
sons past he led a considerable choir of singers
in Handel's immortal oratorio, the Messiah. Vic-
256
tor was married to Gertrude Johnson, of Dal-
ton, Ohio, July 22, 1934. Gertrude was born
April 13, 1912. They are both members <>f
Salem Mennonite Church.
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Homer demons, born April 23, 1936.
2) Priscilla Ann, born June 4, 1938.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
2. Corinne Gerber, born January 12, 1913, also
musically inclined and quite proficient on the
piano and organ. She also had one year in
Blufrton College, chiefly in piano, and served
the Salem Church commendably, especially on
the organ, for a number of years. She was
married, March 2, 1934, to Arthur Krehbiel of
Lemon Grove, a village in the foothills of the
Sierras in California. The wedding was solemn-
ized by Rev. Dr. H. J. Krehbiel, father of the
groom and one of the leading spirits of the
General Conference of Mennonites in America.
Arthur was born August 22, 1910, at Reedley,
California. They are Mennonites. Two children
have been born:
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Fanny Delores, died in infancy.
2) Arthur David, born September 2, 1936.
3) Lora Lee, born April 10, 1938.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
3. Murray Joy Gerber was born December 6, 1917.
He is a graduate of Dalton High School and
a good singer.
257
4. Richard Boyd Gerber, youngest son of Mr. and
Mrs. Simon A. Gerber, was born March 22,
1926. He is attending Kidron Grade School and
shows signs of becoming an accomplished
musician.
FOURTH GENERATION
Abraham Gerber Family Continued
III. Alice Gerber, oldest living daughter of Abraham
Gerber, was born August 24, 1884. She lives with
her sister on the home place. Alice lost her eye-
sight when she was in her teen age.
IV. Martha Gerber, Dalton, Ohio, was born October
5, 1886, and married to Joel Zuercher, May 28,
1908, by Rev. Jacob Nussbaum of the Sonnenberg
Mennonite Church. Formerly members of the
Sonnenberg Mennonite Church, they transferred
their membership several years ago to the Salem
Church. Thirteen children have enlivened their
home as follows:
FIFTH GENERATION
1. George Lester Zuercher, born June 1, 1909,
was married to Dorothy Wise, March 27, 1932,
at Wheeling, West Virginia, by W. L. Lewis
D.D. George works at the Experiment Sta-
tion, Wooster, Ohio. Four children have been
born to them.
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Betty Jane Zuercher, born March 13, 1933.
2) Ann Marie Zuercher, born July 21, 1934.
3) Robert Zuercher) twins, born February
4) Roger Zuercher) 10, 1936.
258
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
2. Effie Marie Zuercher, born October 20, L910,
by profession a school teacher, was married to
Jospeh F. Painter, Louisville. Ohio, by Rev.
A. R. Keiser, Salem Mennonite Church, Oc-
tober 20, 1935. Mr. Painter is a printer by
trade. He was born April 23, 1909, Canton,
Ohio.
SIXTH GENERATION
1) James Franklin, born September 1, 1936,
died September 3.
2) Clair Jerome, born September 29, 1937.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
3. Lloyd Ellis Zuercher, born March 11, 1912,
Dalton, Ohio, works at the Experiment Sta-
tion at Wooster, married to Florence M.
Hasseman, January 29, 1937 by Rev. A. R.
Keiser, Dalton, Ohio.
4. Sylvia Mae Zuercher, born November 9, 1913,
attended the Massillon Commercial Institute.
5. Anna Katherine Zuercher, born October 4,
1914, was married to Ray Berger of Massillon,
Ohio. They reside at Canton, Ohio', where Ray
is employed.
6. Barbara Idella Zuercher, born October 25,
1915, is a teacher. She has studied at Kent
Teachers' College.
7. Abraham Zuercher, born December 29, 1916,
died the next day.
8. Irene Faith Zuercher, born July 8, 1918. She
does house work.
259
9. Helen Alice Zuercher, born August 23, 1919.
She is a high school student.
10. Odulla June Zuercher, born June 14, 1922.
Also high school student.
11. Martha Jane Zuercher, born January 14, 1925.
12. Kenneth Laverne Zuercher, born March 21,
1926.
13. Joel Zuercher, Jr., born November 28, 1927,
died the same day.
FOURTH GENERATION
Abraham Gerber Family Continued
V. Menno Gerber, R. 2, Orrville, Ohio, was born
the second son of Abraham Gerber, September
26, 1889. As a farmer, he specializes in fruit,
flower and shrub culture. His farm is located
two miles northwest of Kidron. June 5, 1913,
he was married to Anna Moser, by Rev. Jacob
Nussbaum, daughter of Rev. Jacob Moser, Kid-
ron. Anna was born May 8, 1891, is a member
of the Mennonite Church. Six children are the
fruits of this union, to wit:
FIFTH GENERATION
1. Goldie Barbara Gerber, born March 25, 1914,
is a member of the Mennonite Church. She
attended Goshen College, Goshen, Indiana,
and is employed as bookkeeper at the E. P.
Gerber Lumber and Hardware Store.
2. Mabel Verena Gerber, born April 20, 1915.
She is a member of the Salem Church. She
was married to Hugo Wanner of Navarre,
May 21, 1937, by Rev. A. R. Keiser. They
260 «
reside at Navarre, where Hugo is employed
at Nickles Bakery. Hugo was born in Switz-
erland.
SIXTH GENERATION
1) Paul Victor, born March 2, 1938.
FIFTH GENERATION CONTINUED
3. Pauline Mae Gerber, bom August 2, 1917,
has attended Kent State Teacher's College,
and is teaching.
4. Clarence Roy Gerber, born January 5, 1919.
He helps his father on the farm.
5. Iona Annette Gerber, born January 9, 1924.
She is a high school student.
6. Nola Victorine Gerber, born March 31, 1927,
died October 28, 1936, of diphtheria.
FOURTH GENERATION CONTINUED
VI. Adam Gerber, third son of Abraham Gerber,
was born on May 7, 1892. He was married, Au-
gust 17, 1929, to Mary Camp and is farming.
Adam has enrolled, religiously, as a "Jehovah
Witness."
VII. Andrew Gerber, fourth son of Abraham Ger-
ber, was born September 21, 1895. He was mar-
ried to Delia Beck. His wife died May, 1933. He
is a painter by trade and by confession, a "Je-
hovah Witness." Four children have joined
the family.
FIFTH GENERATION
1. Lloyd A. Gerber, born May 30, 1928.
2. Lester R. Gerber, born September 10, 1929.
261
3. Junior Gerber, born May 10, 1931.
4. Russel John Gerber, born April 25, 1933.
FOURTH GENERATION
VIII. Ida Gerber, R. 1, Dalton, Ohio, youngest child
of Abraham Gerber, was born January 12, 1898.
She was married to Adam J. Hofstetter,
January 18, 1919, by Rev. E. E. Young
of Wooster, Ohio. Adam was born Jan-
uary 18, 1888. He farms the Old Gerber home-
stead and by trade is an accomplished mason.
The family adheres to the "Jehovah Witness"
Faith. Six children have been added to this
family, viz:
FIFTH GENERATION
1. Birdene J. Hofstetter, born June 23, 1920.
She is a high school student.
2. Leroy J. Hofstetter, born June 4, 1923. He is
also a high school student.
3. Robert J. Hofstetter, born January 13, 1928.
4. Barbara Jean Hofstetter, born June 19, 1930.
5. Abraham Lee Hofstetter, born February 16,
1933.
6. Donald Joseph Hofstetter, born April 18,
1937.
262
REUNION SONG
(Tune— My Jesus I Love Thee.)
As we are assembled,
With joy we will sing
Of blessings, unnumbered,
From Jesus, our King.
We'll praise Him for guidance,
For keeping and care.
For His love unceasing
Which all of us share
Our Father has kept us,
Has guarded our way,
Has caused harm and evil
Far from us to stay.
Has spared lives of loved ones,
Has given us friends,
And for all these mercies,
Our thanks we extend.
Oh, may all our family
His name e'er revere,
And serve Him with purpose
And heart still sincere
May we be a blessing,
His Kingdom help extend,
And show unto others
Our love for this Friend.
263
INDEX
Of Generations, Families, and Individuals, as Tht> ( ome
in Their Genealogical Order Down to
Fifth Generation Included
Page
Contents 2
The Author (Illustration) 4
Author's Residence (Illustrated) ">
Preface t;
Introduction 7
Songs . 12
Immigration Ship 14
Diary of Forefathers 15
When Deacon Michael Arrived
The Country 20
The State of Ohio 20
Wayne County 21
Building Canal 23
Tax Receipt 24
Pioneer Buildings 25 and 26
Modern Houses 27
First and Second Church 28
The Same, Inside 29
First Cemetery 30
Genealogy
Fragmentary History of Ancestors
Summary of Descendants • 41
MICHAEL'S GENEALOGY— The Stem 42
SECOND GENERATION, Branch A 43
Barbara (Gerber)— Peter Hofstetter 43
Third Generation, Branch A, Section 1
Katharine Hofstetter— (Christ Steiner) 44
Fourth Generation Christine (Steiner) —
Pete Althaus 45
Fifth Generation— Amos Althaus 45
William Althaus
Mary (Althaus) Paul • 46
265
Page
Florence (Althaus) Mann 47
Clara, Elmer, Lillie Althaus 47
Wilbur Althaus 47
Fourth Generation — Tobias Steiner 48
Fifth Generation — Martha Steiner 48
Miriam Steiner — Adam Welty 49
Mary Steiner— C. U. Widmer , 51
Anna Steiner — Noah Herr 51
Katharine Steiner — 53
Abr. Steiner 54
Susan Steiner — C. F. Diemer 55
Monroe Steiner 56
Louise Steiner 56
Fourth Generation — Daniel Steiner 56
Fifth Generation — Minnie Steiner — Lee Arnold .... 56
Francis Steiner 58
Kort, Nettie Steiner 60
Evelyn Steiner — Robert Beltz 60
Dora Steiner — Robert Corvin 61
Fourth Generation — Barbara Steiner 62
Fourth Generation — Moses Steiner 62
Fifth Generation — Naomi Steiner-Clarence Hause 62
Clorinda Steiner — Herbert Luginbuhl 63
Wilbur, and Marcella Steiner 63
Section 2, Branch A, Third Generation — Barbara
Gerber Descendants Continued 63
Magdalena Hofstetter — Abr. Gerber 63
Fourth Generation — Judith, Sara, Joseph Hofstetter 64
Rebecca Gerber — Edward Chatelaine 64
Fifth Generation — Emma Chatelaine — James
W. Eaton 65
Malinda Chatelaine — Arthur S. Laird 66
Lina A. Chatelaine — Fred Runyan 66
Dina C. Chatelaine — Riley Schrivner 67
Ida B. Chatelaine — Charles Briggs 68
Florence C. Chatelaine 68
Fourth Generation — Benjamin Gerber 68
Fifth Generation — Sara Gerber 69
266
Page
Joseph Gerber t i
Edward Gerber 70
Lydia Gerber — Rev. R. M. Weavi 70
Amanda and Lena Gerber . 70
Fourth Generation — Salome Gerber —
Frederick Beyler 71
Fifth Generation — Leah Beyler . 71
Christian Beyler 72
Alfred Beyler 72
Fourth Generation — Lena Gerber — Ferdinand
Balmer 73
Fifth Generation — Lovina Balmer —
Amandus Hartzler 73
Lillie Balmer — John Rupp ... 74
Delia Balmer — Ura Hofstetter 74
Dessie Balmer — Henry Hedrick 75
Ruth Balmer — Amra Hofstetter 76
Rena Balmer 76
Fourth Generation — Tobias Gerber 76
Fourth Generation — Leah Gerber — Henry Hinkel 76
Fifth Generation— Amos Hinkel 77
Mary Hinkel— John F. Kreider 77
Anna Marie Hinkel 77
Lydia Hinkel— Claude R. Zinn 78
Elmer Glenn and Olive Salome Hinkel 78
Third Generation, Branch A, Section 3,
Christian Hofstetter 79
Fourth Generation — Verena Hofstetter 79
Fourth Generation — Benjamin Hofstetter 79
Roy and Lois Hofstetter 79
Fourth Generation — Christian C. Hofstetter 79
Fifth Generation — Donald C. Hofstetter 80
Ralph D. Hofstetter .... 80
Katharine M. Hofstetter 80
Harold W. Hofstetter 80
Merlin I. Hofstetter 80
Third Generation, Branch A, Section 4. —
John P. Hofstetter
267
Page
Fourth Generation — Leah Hofstetter —
John Zuercher 81
Fifth Generation — Sara Zuercher — Joshua
Gerber 81
Fannie Zuercher — Amos B. Amstutz 82
Mary Zuercher — Edwin Neuenschwander 84
Amos Zuercher — 85
Fourth Generation — Judith Hofstetter 86
Fourth Generation — Noah Hofstetter 86
Fourth Generation — Aaron Hofstetter 86
Fourth Generation — Daniel Hofstetter 86
Fourth Generation — Peter J. Hofstetter 87
Fifth Generation— Melvin F. Hofstetter 87
Roy P. Hofstetter 88
ZeUa K. Hofstetter— Quine E. Starr 88
Benjamin J. Hofstetter 88
Henry A. Hofstetter _.._ 88
Fourth Generation — Anna Hofstetter 89
Fourth Generation — Barbara Hofstetter —
Solomon J. Amstutz 89
Fifth Generation — Allen Amstutz 89
Anna Amstutz — Henry Kornhaus 90
Celeste Amstutz 90
Edna Amstutz 90
Fourth Generation — Fannie Hofstetter —
Alfred Sommer 90
Fifth Generation — Iva Sommer 91
Eldon F. Sommer 91
Ada A. Sommer 91
Fourth Generation — John Hofstetter 91
Third Generation, Section 5, Branch A —
Barbara Hofstetter 91
Third Generation, Section 6, Branch A —
Elizabeth Hofstetter 92
SECOND GENERATION, Branch B— Anna Gerber
— Samuel Zuercher 92
Third Generation — Section 1, Branch B — Abraham
Zuercher 93
268
Page
Third Generation — Section 2, Branch B — John
Zuercher 93
Third Generation — Section 3, Branch B —
Christian Zuercher . 93
Third Generation, Section 4, Branch B —
Jacob Zuercher . 94
Fourth Generation — Sara Zuercher — Harry E.
Duke . 95
Fifth Generation — Harold Duke .... 96
Norman A. Duke .... 96
Mary Ellen Duke — Arthur J. Wantha 96
Charles Duke 96
Margaret E. Duke 96
Fourth Generation, Jacob Zuercher, Jr 96
Fifth Generation — Harriet Zuercher —
Harry Gibson 97
Arthur Zuercher 97
Lillian Zuercher _ 97
William Zuercher 97
Norman Zuercher 97
Dorothy Zuercher 97
Mary Ann Zuercher 97
Fourth Generation — Lydia Zuercher 97
Fourth Generation — Mary Zuercher — John
Balzer 97
Fifth Generation — William John Balzer 98
David John Balzer 98
Third Generation, Section 5, Branch B —
David Zuercher 98
Fourth Generation — Anna Zuercher 98
Fourth Generation — Mary Zuercher —
George Heinold 98
Fifth Generation — Clarence Heinold 99
Joseph Heinold
Cora B. Heinold
Laura M. Heinold
Melvin Heinold
Wilbur Heinold •■■■ "
269
Page
Lester Heinold 99
Ruth Heinold 99
Fourth Generation — Lydia Zuercher 99
Fourth Generation — Joseph Zuercher 100
Fifth Generation — Milton Zuercher 100
Curtiss Zuercher 100
Loren Zuercher _ 100
Fourth Generation — Adine Zuercher 100
Fourth Generation — Theodore Zuercher 100
Fourth Generation — Minnie Zuercher 100
Fourth Generation — Cora Zuercher 100
SECOND GENERATION, Branch C— Catherine
Gerber — Abraham Falb 101
Third Generation, Section 1, Branch C —
Anna Falb 102
Third Generation, Section 2, Branch C —
Barbara Falb 103
Third Generation, Section 3, Branch C —
Katharine Falb 103
Third Generation, Section 4, Branch C —
John Falb 103
Fourth Generation — Noah Falb 104
Fourth Generation — Elizabeth Falb — Joel Mazelin 104
Fifth Generation — Allen Mazelin 104
Sara Mazelin 105
Elda Mazelin — Menno Habegger 105
Rufus Mazelin 105
Peter J. Mazelin 105
Silas C. Mazelin 105
Martha Mazelin 105
Lina Mazelin 105
Franklin Mazelin 105
Mary Ann Mazelin 105
Fourth Generation — Daniel Falb 105
Fifth Generation— Elda G. Falb 106
Viola M. Falb 106
Levi D. Falb 106
Aldine N. Falb 106
270
Page
Ida I. Falb , l)(;
Lydia M. Falb 106
Bertha R. Falb 1, )7
Clyde J. Falb 107
Raymond F. Falb 107
Fourth Generation — Joel Falb In7
Fifth Generation — Anna Arlene Falb —
Louis Nussbaum 107
Mildred Iva Falb — Elias Keiner ... 108
Mylon Wilson Falb . 108
Dennis Jay Falb . 109
Grace Elizabeth Falb 109
Warren Franklin Falb 109
Lillian Marie Falb . 109
Fourth Generation — Fannie Falb —
Albert Zuercher 109
Fifth Generation — Enos L. Zuercher 109
George A. Zuercher 109
Metta Zuercher 109
Esther E. Zuercher 109
Elizabeth K. Zuercher 110
Herbert I. Zuercher 110
Helen E. Zuercher 110
John S. Zuercher IK)
Third Generation, Section 5, Abraham Falb 110
Third Generation, Section 6, Abraham Falb, Jr. . 110
Fourth Generation, John Falb, Jr 11
Fifth Generation, Albert Falb 11
Fourth Generation — Samuel Falb 11
Fourth Generation, Anna Falb — Fred Keiner . 1 1
Fifth Generation — Elias Keiner 11
Paul Keiner 112
Andrew Keiner 112
Fourth Generation — David Falb
Fifth Generation— Ivan R. Falb 113
Effie M. Falb— Orris Yoder 113
Milton G. Falb 113
Irene E. Falb 114
271
Page
George E. Falb 114
Fourth Generation — Ehas Falb 114
Fifth Generation — Dennis Falb 114
Isaiah Falb 114
Bertha Falb _ 114
Paul Falb 114
Fourth Generation — Sarah Falb — Walter G.
Snavely 114
Fourth Generation — Lydia Falb — Amos
Nussbaum 115
Fifth Generation — Irvin Allen Nussbaum 115
Nathan Evan Nussbaum 115
Delvin Dale Nussbaum 115
Fourth Generation — Martha Falb — Albert
Baumgartner 115
Fifth Generation — Esther Baumgartner 115
SECOND GENERATION, Branch D, John M.
Gerber, Sr 116
Third Generation, Section 1, Branch D.,
Anna Gerber — Christian Amstutz 117
Fourth Generation — John C. Amstutz 118
Fifth Generation — Ella Amstutz — Dan B. Amstutz 118
Celeste Amstutz — Jacob Baze 118
Wesley Amstutz _ _ 120
Harvey Amstutz 120
Lydia Amstutz — Henry Funk 120
Pearl Amstutz — Harry Coil - 121
Earl A. Amstutz 122
Waldo Amstutz 122
Milo W. Amstutz 123
Ira B. Amstutz 123
Nora May Amstutz 124
Elma Amstutz 124
Dilman Amstutz 124
Fourth Generation — Anna Amstutz — John Berg 125
Fifth Generation — Alice Berg — P. C. Sommer .... 125
Leah Berg — Samuel Roberts 126
Philip Berg 129
272
Page
Grover Louis Berg 131
Elizabeth Berg— Joel Falb 131
Peter Berg 131
Albert Berg . 132
Ida Anna Berg — Abraham I. Nussbaum 133
Milton Berg 134
Fourth Generation — Joel Amstutz 134
Fourth Generation — Judith Amstutz — George
Berg 135
Fifth Generation— Daniel Berg 135
Alfred Berg 136
Matilda Berg 137
Ella Berg— David Weeman 137
Lena Berg — Edward Kaiser 138
Mellie Emma Berg— John Nolt 138
Laura Berg — George Gardner 139
Sara Berg — Rolland Lessard 139
Fourth Generation — Leah Amstutz — Christian
Badertscher 140
Fifth Generation — Olive Badertscher — Albert
Nussbaum 141
Harvey Badertscher 141
Pearl Eva Badertscher — Milo Villard 142
Carrie Alpha Badertscher— George Sprunger 143
Fourth Generation— Magdalena Amstutz—
John Lehman 144
Fifth Generation — Bessie Lehman— Melvin Steiner 145
Ida A. Lehman— Carl D. Light 145
Jesse H. Lehman
Fourth Generation— Daniel W. Amstutz .
Fifth Generation— Nelson Amstutz
Oscar Amstutz
Herbert Amstutz
Victor Amstutz
Ora Amstutz
Esther Amstutz— Lester Rehm
Carl Amstutz
Fourth Generation— Peter C. Amstutz .... 149
273
Page
Third Generation, Section 2, Branch D —
Catharina — John Baumgartner 149
Fourth Generation — Caroline Baumgartner 150
Fourth Generation — Rosina Baumgartner —
Daniel Kirchhofer 150
Fifth Generation — Roy Kirchhofer 150
Stella Kirchhofer 151
Dora Kirchhofer 151
Delvin Kirchhofer 151
Fourth Generation — Sara Baumgartner 151
Fourth Generation — Daniel W. Baumgartner 151
Fifth Generation — Wade Dewey Baumgartner 152
Oliver Emmet Baumgartner 152
Neil Washington Baumgartner 153
Roy Adams Baumgartner 153
Alice Anna Baumgartner — Earl Aeschbacher 153
Fourth Generation — Elizabeth Baumgartner —
Elias Basinger 153
Fifth Generation — Sara Basinger — Enos Steiner 154
David W. Basinger 154
Mary A. Basinger 155
Amos Basinger 155
Walter Basinger 156
Bertha E. Basinger 156
Third Generation, Section 3, Branch D — Elizabeth
Gerber — Ferdinand Eisenhart 156
Third Generation, Section 4, Branch D —
Peter M. Gerber 156
Fourth Generation — Rosina Gerber — John
Steiner 157
Fifth Generation — Aaron Steiner 158
Amos Steiner 159
Simon Steiner 160
Menno Steiner 160
Lydia Steiner — Jacob I. Nussbaum 161
John J. Steiner 162
Lizzie Steiner — Jacob P. Neuenschwander .... 163
Enos Steiner 163
274
I'..! •■
Fourth Generation — Daniel P. Gerber 163
Fifth Generation — Aldus Gerber It; I
Grover C. Gerber Itil
Earl E. Gerber L68
Oscar Gerber 166
Clara Gerber— Will Geiser ... 166
Ada Gerber — Elmer Nussbaum 167
Thamar Gerber — Menno Schumacher 168
Daniel D. Gerber 168
Fourth Generation — Levi P. Gerber 168
Fifth Generation — Bertha Gerber — Alvin Sommer 170
Celeste Gerber — Tobias Sprunger 170
Elma Gerber 171
Ivan Gerber 171
Estella Gerber — Ivan Nussbaum 172
Fourth Generation — Anna Gerber —
Solomon Gerber 172
Fourth Generation — Bertha Gerber —
John D. Bixler 172
Fifth Generation — Allen Bixler 173
Fourth Generation — Lydia Gerber — Jacob P.
Gerber 173
Fifth Generation — Delia E. Gerber—
Albert J. Amstutz 174
Nathan Gerber 175
Sylvan Gerber •••- 176
Gilbert C. Gerber 176
Oswin G. Gerber - 176
Delvin E. Gerber 176
Fourth Generation— Peter P. Gerber 177
Fifth Generation — Helen Gerber — John F.
Geiser 177
Elam Gerber 178
Wilson Gerber 179
Etta Gerber — David Geiser 179
Ella Gerber - I 80
Orpha Gerber— Allen P. Geiser 180
275
Page
Carl R. Gerber 180
Verda Gerber 180
Roy Gerber 181
Ira Gerber 181
Leonard Gerber 181
Fourth Generation — Joel Gerber 181
Fifth Generation — George Gerber 181
Verena Mae Gerber — C. G. Sprunger 182
Fourth Generation — Elias P. Gerber 183
Fifth Generation — Dora Elsie Gerber —
Albert Amstutz 183
Edwin Ira Gerber 183
Lila Marie Gerber — Otto E. Gerber 184
Oren Emanuel Gerber 184
Anna Elizabeth Gerber 185
Melva Mae Gerber 185
Glenford Nevin Gerber 185
Fourth Generation — Noah P. Gerber 185
Fifth Generation — Melvena Marie Gerber 185
Myron Quentin Gerber 185
Millen Victor Gerber 186
Vilas Roy and Vernon Ray Gerber 186
Leland Wayne Gerber 186
Fourth Generation — Aaron Gerber 187
Fourth Generation — Sara Ann Gerber —
William Hofstetter 187
Fifth Generation — Martha Hofstetter —
Nathan Boegli 188
Millard Hofstetter 188
Oscar Hofstetter 188
Clarence Hofstetter 188
Roy Hofstetter 188
Edwin Hofstetter 188
Lola Irene Hofstetter 188
Lloyd Hofstetter 188
Raymond Hofstetter 188
Leland Hofstetter 188
Fourth Generation — Emanuel Gerber 189
276
Page
Third Generation, Section 5, Branch D —
Christian M. Gerber 189
Fourth Generation — Fannie Gerber — Jacob
Amstutz 189
Fifth Generation — Rhoda Amstutz — John C.
Hofstetter 190
Lina Amstutz — Samuel E. Nussbaum 190
Louis Amstutz 192
Edna Malina Amstutz — Aaron J. Lehman 193
Daniel F. Amstutz 194
Albert Amstutz 194
Fourth Generation — Lina Gerber — 194
Fourth Generation — Elizabeth Gerber —
Simeon Lehman 195
Fourth Generation — John C. Gerber 195
Fifth Generation — Anna Ruff Gerber —
Harry Gregory 195
Esther Marie Gerber 196
Daniel Irvin Gerber 196
Third Generation, Section 6, Branch D —
John M. Gerber, Jr. 197
Fourth Generation — Noah J. Gerber 197
Fifth Generation— Ralph E. Gerber 198
Lloyd N. Gerber 198
Bessie C. Gerber — Leonard Schrag 198
Erna V. Gerber— Edward J. Schrag 198
Clara D. Gerber— 198
Fourth Generation — Mary Gerber —
Christian Gerber 199
Fifth Generation— Olive Gerber— Everett Eggiman 199
Alma Gerber— Ferdinand Zuercher 199
Lewis, Eldon and Lillie
Fourth Generation — Paulina Gerber —
Daniel Steiner
Fifth Generation— Elmer Allen Steiner .
Lillie Ella Steiner— John E. Haarer .
Florence Stella Steiner 203
John D. Steiner 202
277
Page
Pearl Viola Steiner 203
Fourth Generation — Lavina Gerber — Frank
B. Wedel 203
Fourth Generation — Sara Gerber — Peter C.
Hofstetter 204
Fourth Generation — Menes D. Gerber 204
Third Generation, Section 7, Branch D —
Barbara Gerber — David Nussbaum .... 205
Fourth Generation — Jacob Nussbaum 205
Fifth Generation — Donald David Nussbaum 206
Melvin Ray Nussbaum 206
Edith Marcella Nussbaum 206
Berdella June Nussbaum 206
Francis Carlton Nussbaum 206
Fourth Generation — Lavina Nussbaum —
Amos Basinger 206
Fifth Generation — Francis Basinger 206
Jonathan David Basinger 206
Milo Addison Basinger 207
Third Generation, Section 8, Branch D — Fannie
Gerber — Christian Baumgartner 207
Fourth Generation — Eli Baumgartner 207
Fifth Generation— Ira Baumgartner 208
Ora Baumgartner — Edwin Nussbaum 208
Elva Baumgartner — Earl Winteregg 209
Fourth Generation — Emma Louise Baumgartner 209
Fourth Generation — Lavina Baumgartner —
Elias Amstutz 210
Fifth Generation — Menno S. Amstutz 210
Ellis E. Amstutz 210
Sarah Ann Amstutz — Willis Lehman 211
George C. Amstutz 211
Leo L. Amstutz 211
Elva Lucy Amstutz 212
Fourth Generation — Edwin C. Baumgartner 212
Fifth Generation — Florine Verene Baumgartner 212
Pauline Regina Baumgartner — Joe H. McCool 213
Clara Ida Baumgartner — Lewis M. Reiff 213
278
Esther Louise Baumgartner 213
Martha Jane BaumgartniT 213
Dorothy Elizabeth Baumgartner
Fourth Generation — George Baumgartner . 214
Fifth Generation — Verna Marie BaumgartniT 214
Menno Gordon Baumgartmr 214
Ada Verena Baumgartner 21")
Third Generation, Section 9, Branch D — Magdalena
Gerber — Ephraim BaumgartniT . 215
Fourth Generation — Aldina A. Baumgartner—
Gideon Sprunger 216
Fifth Generation — Gertrude A. Sprunger —
Clair L. Smith 216
Magdalena M. Sprunger — Harvey Hirschy .... 216
Esther E. Sprunger — Preston Zehr 217
Palmer C. Sprunger — 217
Fourth Generation — Noah Oswin Baumgartner .... 217
Fifth Generation — Inah Baumgartner— T. H.
Cotton 218
Estella Baumgartner— Ercil Stewart 218
Milford Baumgartner 218
Fourth Generation — Hiram Henry Baumgartner
Velma A. Baumgartner— Roy Kirchhofcr 219
Willard Luther Baumgartner 219
Rhoda Magdalena Baumgartner 219
Esther Lucille Baumgartner— Lester Gerber ..
Lawrence Leslie Baumgartner
Ella Jane Baumgartner
Fourth Generation— Menas Milo Baumgartner
Fourth Generation— Cora Amelia Baumgartner .... 220
Fourth Generation— Amanda Salome Baum-
gartner — Oscar Steiner
Fifth Generation— Carlton Clyde Steiner .
Perl Luther Steiner
Luella Magdalena Steiner
Emmet Lavere Steiner
Clarence Samuel Steiner
Melva Elizabeth Steiner 222
279
Page
Esther C. Steiner 222
Weldon Arvine Steiner 222
Verna Gene Steiner 222
Fourth Generation — Lenora Mae Baumgartner .... 222
Fourth Generation — Lillie Lora Baumgartner —
Eli Habegger 222
Third Generation, Section 10, Branch D —
Marie Gerber — Christian Schwartz .... 223
Fourth Generation — Rachael Schwartz —
John P. Reigle 224
Fifth Generation — Amelia Reigle —
Wilbur Odell 224
June Reigle — Marvin Root 224
Orrville Reigle 224
Violet Reigle— Neil Holtzer 225
Treva Reigle — Fred Morrison 225
Lola Reigle — E. Bargo 225
Fourth Generation — Adam Schwartz 226
Fourth Generation — Lydia Schwartz —
Louis Reigle 226
Fifth Generation — Clara Agnes Reigle 226
Marvin Louis Reigle 226
Fourth Generation — Catharine Schwartz —
Albert D. Moser 227
Fifth Generation— Odessa C. Moser 227
Carl F. Moser 227
Stanley L. Moser 227
Albert I. Moser 227
Fourth Generation — Simon S. Schwartz 227
Fifth Generation — Raymond Schwartz 227
Edith Schwartz 227
Edison Schwartz 227
Fourth Generation — Susan Schwartz — David
D. Kurtz 228
Fifth Generation— Evelyn Kurtz— W. J. Grant .... 228
Roy W. Kurtz 228
Bessie A. Kurtz — Dayton Heiks 228
William D. Kurtz 229
280
Page
Gordon W. Kurtz 229
Edwin F. Kurtz 229
Paul E. Kurtz 229
Mary L. Kurtz 229
Fourth Generation — David Schwartz .... 229
Fifth Generation — Donald Francis Schwartz 230
Fourth Generation — Sara Schwartz — Elmer
Fetter 230
Fifth Generation— Ruth Fetter 230
Doris Fetter 230
Fourth Generation — Joe Schwartz 230
Fifth Generation — Mary Louise Schwartz 230
Fourth Generation — Clara Schwartz — Fred
Fahrney 230
Fifth Generation — Ralph and Richard Fahrney .... 230
Fourth Generation — Marietta Schwartz —
Louis Berg 231
Fifth Generation— Sylvia M. Berg— Walter Ott . 232
Anna E. Berg 232
Clarence M. Berg and Robert Louis Berg 232
Third Generation, Section 11, Branch D —
Daniel M. Gerber 232
Fourth Generation Amos Gerber 233
Fifth Generation— Arvilla Gerber 234
Clarence Gerber 234
Juanita Gerber 234
Fourth Generation — Adam Gerber 234
Fourth Generation — Lavina Gerber — David
J. Hofstetter 234
Fifth Generation— Sylvan Hofstetter 235
Clyde Hofstetter 235
Cora Hofstetter 235
Lores Hofstetter 235
Willis and Clair Hofstetter 235
Fourth Generation — Rufus Gerber 236
Fifth Generation— Lester R. Gerber 236
Olive R. Gerber— Gilbert Nussbaum 237
Dwight R. Gerber 237
281
Page
Fourth Generation — Philip Gerber 237
Fifth Generation — Luella Gerber — Lester Lehman 237
Elma Gerber — Vilas Zuercher 237
Rhoda Gerber — George Nussbaum 237
Anna Gerber 237
Fourth Generation — Hulda Gerber — John C.
Hofstetter 238
Fifth Generation — Laverne Hofstetter 238
Wilford Hofstetter 239
Fourth Generation — Anna Gerber — Edwin
Zuercher 239
Fifth Generation — Dorothy and Verna Zuercher 239
Fourth Generation — Elbert Gerber 239
Fourth Generation — Edna Gerber 239
Third Generation, Section 12, Branch D — Regina
Gerber— Edward Chatelaine 239
Fourth Generation — Lee Chatelaine 240
SECOND GENERATION, Branch E— Ulrich Gerber 240
Third Generation, Section 2, Branch E —
Anna Gerber — Peter Welty 241
Fourth Generation — Benjamin Welty 241
Fifth Generation— David Nelson Welty 242
Fourth Generation — John Welty 242
Fourth Generation— William Welty 242
Fourth Generation — Rose Welty — Daniel D.
Bixler 242
Fifth Generation— Orlo Bixler 243
Dora Bixler— Verl K. Geume 243
Milo Bixler 243
Fourth Generation — Daniel Welty 244
Fifth Generation — Arvine Welty 244
Elta Welty Clinton Habegger 244
Ruth M. Welty— Arnold Raber 245
Esther I. Welty— Harry Rhine 245
Sylvia Welty— Homer Hofstetter 245
Fourth Generation — Reuben Welty 246
Third Generation, Section 3, Branch E —
Ulrich Gerber 246
282
Pa
Fourth Generation — Anna Gcrber — Joe]
Hofstetter 246
Fifth Generation — Andrew Hofstetter 246
Fourth Generation — Barbara M. Gerber —
Wm. H. Tschantz 247
Fifth Generation — Anna Dora Tschantz 248
Josephine Ellen Tschantz— Harvey E. Wirth
Ira Millard Tschantz
Martin Luther Tschantz
Esther Elizabeth Tschantz — Ira Sprunger 249
Lillian May Tschantz— William S. Horton .
Raymond Davis Tschantz 250
Fourth Generation — Wm. I. Gerber 251
Fifth Generation— Esther Gerber— Floyd R.
Saurer 251
Clyde Wilson Gerber 252
Melvin Milton Gerber 252
Millard Bryant Gerber 252
Dennis Calvin Gerber 2^2
Grace Marie Gerber — Ellis Kirchhofer 252
Lina A. Gerber 253
Glenn Roy Gerber 253
Lyman Critchfield Gerber 253
Third Generation, Section 6, Branch E — Elizabeth
Gerber — Abraham Hofstetter 254
Fourth Generation — Anna Hofstetter — Jacob A.
Moser 254
Fifth Generation — Ellen A. Moser —
Wilbert S. Geiger 254
Victor H. Moser 255
Third Generation, Section 8, Branch E —
Abraham L. Gerber 255
Fourth Generation — Simon A. Gerber 256
Fifth Generation — Victor Gerber 256
Corinne Gerber — Arthur Krehbiel 257
Murray Joy Gerber - :,:;
Richard Boyd Gerber 258
Fourth Generation — Alice Gerber 25 B
283
Page
Fourth Generation — Martha Gerber — Joel
Zuercher 258
Fifth Generation — George Lester Zuercher 258
Effie Marie Zuercher — Joseph S. Painter 259
Lloyd Ellis Zuercher 259
Sylvia Mae Zuercher 259
Anna Katharine Zuercher 259
Barbara Idella Zuercher 259
Irene Faith Zuercher 259
Helen Alice Zuercher 260
Odulla June Zuercher 260
Martha Jane Zuercher 260
Kenneth Laverne Zuercher 260
Fourth Generation — Menno Gerber 260
Fifth Generation— Goldie Gerber 260
Mabel Verena Gerber — Hugo Wanner 260
Pauline Mae Gerber 261
Clarence Roy Gerber 261
Clarence Roy Gerber 261
Iona Annette Gerber 261
Fourth Generation — Adam Gerber 261
Fourth Generation — Andrew Gerber 261
Fifth Generation— Lloyd Gerber 261
Lester R. Gerber 261
Junior and Russell Gerber 262
Fourth Generation — Ida Gerber — Adam J.
Hofstetter 262
Fifth Generation— Birdene Mae Hofstetter 262
Leroy J. Hofstetter 262
Robert J. Hofstetter 262
Barbara Jean Hofstetter 262
Abraham Lee and Donald Joseph Hofstetter 262
Reunion Song 263
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